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

Every city handles soliciting & door-to-door a little differently. In Memphis, Tennessee, 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

Memphis requires door-to-door solicitors and peddlers to obtain a permit under the city code. Memphis Code Title 2, Chapter 2-36 governs consumer protection and solicitation. Solicitors must register with the city, provide identification, and may be subject to background checks. Permits must be carried while soliciting and shown upon request. Religious and political canvassers are generally exempt from permit requirements under First Amendment protections. Solicitation is prohibited before 9:00 AM and after 9:00 PM.

Key details: Permit Required: Yes — city solicitor/peddler permit. Code Section: Title 2, Chapter 2-36. Hours: 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Exemptions: Religious and political canvassers. ID Requirement: Must carry and display permit while soliciting.

Soliciting without permit: $100 to $500 citation. Violating hours: $100 to $250. Failure to display badge: $50 to $200.

No-Knock Registry

Memphis residents can post 'No Soliciting' signs to deter unwanted door-to-door solicitors. Under the city's solicitation regulations, it is a violation for a permitted solicitor to knock on a door or ring a bell at a residence that displays a 'No Soliciting' or 'No Peddlers' sign. Violators can be fined and have their solicitor permit revoked. Residents can report violations to Memphis Police or Code Enforcement. The no-knock protection does not apply to political canvassers or religious visitors.

Key details: Sign Enforcement: Solicitors must honor No Soliciting signs. Violation: Knocking despite posted sign is a code violation. Penalty: Fine and possible permit revocation. Exemptions: Political and religious canvassers not covered. Reporting: Memphis Police or Code Enforcement.

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

The Bottom Line

Memphis'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 Memphis is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Memphis's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.