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

Every city handles soliciting & door-to-door a little differently. In Los Angeles, California, 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

Los Angeles requires a commercial solicitor permit under LAMC §42.13 for door-to-door commercial canvassing. The Police Commission issues permits after a background check. Religious, political, and charitable canvassing is exempt under First Amendment protections. Posted "No Soliciting" signs are legally enforceable against commercial canvassers.

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Soliciting without a permit, ignoring "No Soliciting" signs, or canvassing outside permitted hours is a misdemeanor punishable by fines up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both. LAPD may revoke permits for fraud or repeated violations. Permits may also be denied or revoked for disqualifying criminal history.

No-Knock Registry

Los Angeles does not have a specific no-knock or no-soliciting registry ordinance. Residents may post No Soliciting signs on their property. Ignoring a posted No Soliciting sign may constitute trespass under LAMC 41.24 if the person refuses to leave when asked. Religious and political canvassing is constitutionally protected and generally exempt from solicitation restrictions.

Key details: No-Knock Registry: None in City of LA. No Soliciting Signs: Residents may post. Trespass: LAMC 41.24 if refuse to leave. Exemptions: Religious, political canvassing protected.

Ignoring no-soliciting sign: $50 to $250. Visiting registered address: $100 to $500. Repeated violations may result in permit revocation.

Los Angeles is more permissive than most cities when it comes to no-knock registry. That said, there are still limits.

The Bottom Line

Los Angeles'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 Los Angeles is broadly strict or permissive.

Keep in mind that Los Angeles can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.