Solicitor Permits: Arlington vs Lowell
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Lowell, MA?
Arlington and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts requires hawkers and peddlers selling goods door-to-door to obtain a state license from the Division of Standards in addition to local permits.
View full Arlington rules →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Door-to-door salespeople and commercial solicitors in Lowell must obtain a hawkers and peddlers license or city solicitor permit before canvassing residences.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | G.L. c. 101 | - |
| License Issuer | Division of Standards | - |
| Veteran Fee | Free under Sec. 22 | - |
| Local Permit | Often also required | - |
| State License | - | MGL c.101 hawkers-peddlers |
| City Permit | - | Lowell solicitor permit |
| Hours | - | 9 a.m. to sunset |
| Exempt | - | Religious, political, nonprofit |
| Trespass | - | MGL c.266 s.120 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Are nonprofit and political solicitors covered?
No. G.L. c. 101 applies to commercial sales of goods. Religious, charitable, and political canvassing is generally protected by the First Amendment but may be subject to local registration.
What does the state license cost?
The Division of Standards charges $62 annually for hawker and peddler licenses for non-veterans; veterans receive licenses without charge under c. 101 Section 22.
Lowell FAQ
How do I get a permit?
Apply through the Lowell City Clerk office with ID and employer information.
Are Girl Scouts covered?
No. Nonprofit youth fundraising is generally exempt from commercial solicitor rules.
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