Kent's Soliciting & Door-to-Door: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles soliciting & door-to-door a little differently. In Kent, Washington, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Solicitor Permits

Door-to-door solicitors in Kent must obtain a Solicitor Permit from Kent Police with a background check and Kent business license under KCC 5.02. Permits cost around 75 dollars and include a photo ID badge.

Key details: Permit Required: Commercial solicitors, KCC 5.02. Fee: Around 75 dollars, background check. Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat. Exempt: Religious, political, charitable.

Soliciting without a Kent permit is a misdemeanor under KCC 5.02 with fines up to 1,000 dollars and up to 90 days jail. Ignoring a No Soliciting sign is a separate criminal trespass violation under RCW 9A.52.080.

Compared to other cities, Kent takes a harder line on solicitor permits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

No-Knock Registry

Kent residents can post a No Soliciting sign to legally bar commercial door-to-door sales under KCC 5.02 and 9.02. Ignoring a posted sign constitutes criminal trespass enforceable by Kent Police.

Key details: Sign Required: Post visibly at entrance. Commercial: Must leave immediately. Criminal Trespass: RCW 9A.52.080 misdemeanor. Non-Profit: Exempt but usually respectful.

Ignoring a posted No Soliciting sign is criminal trespass under RCW 9A.52.080, a misdemeanor with up to 90 days jail and 1,000 dollars fine. Permitted solicitors also face permit revocation under KCC 5.02.

The Bottom Line

Kent's soliciting & door-to-door rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Kent is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Kent's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.