Solicitor Permits: Allentown vs Bethlehem
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Allentown, PA and Bethlehem, PA?
Allentown and Bethlehem have similar restriction levels.
Allentown, PA
Lehigh County
Allentown requires door-to-door solicitors and peddlers to obtain a permit. Background checks and identification badges are commonly required.
View full Allentown rules →Bethlehem, PA
Lehigh County
Section 311.01 declares uninvited door-to-door peddling a public nuisance. Section 311.02(b) exempts religious and political solicitation consistent with First Amendment law. Section 717.02 separately bars peddler noise on Sunday and outside 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on other days, and within 150 feet of schools or churches.
View full Bethlehem rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Allentown | Bethlehem |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for commercial soliciting | - |
| Background Check | Required | - |
| Hours | 9 AM to 9 PM typical | - |
| Exempt | Religious, political canvassing | - |
| Primary Code | - | Art. 311 + Sec. 717.02 |
| Religious/Political Exempt | - | Sec. 311.02(b) |
| Peddler Hours | - | 7 a.m.-10 p.m., not Sunday |
| Buffer | - | 150 ft of school/church |
| Max Penalty | - | $600 + 90 days (3rd) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Allentown FAQ
Do all door-to-door salespeople need permits?
Commercial solicitors need permits. Religious and political canvassers are typically exempt under the First Amendment.
What hours can solicitors come to my door?
Typically 9 AM to 9 PM or sunset. Check Allentown municipal code for exact hours.
Bethlehem FAQ
Do I need a permit to sell door-to-door in Bethlehem?
Commercial uninvited door-to-door selling is declared a nuisance under Section 311.01. Article 303 sets a license fee. Religious and political canvassing is exempt under Section 311.02(b) and Watchtower Bible v. Stratton, 536 U.S. 150 (2002).
What hours can peddlers operate in Bethlehem?
Section 717.02 bars any peddler from using a horn, bell or sound instrument, or making noise to draw attention to wares, on Sunday or before 7:00 a.m. or after 10:00 p.m. on other days. A 150-foot school/church buffer also applies.
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