Solicitor Permits: Arlington vs Somerville
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Somerville, MA?
Arlington has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
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 →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Somerville requires door-to-door solicitors and peddlers to register with the Licensing Commission and carry identification. Registration supports background review and gives residents a way to verify legitimacy.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | G.L. c. 101 | - |
| License Issuer | Division of Standards | - |
| Veteran Fee | Free under Sec. 22 | - |
| Local Permit | Often also required | - |
| Administered by | - | Licensing Commission |
| Badge required | - | Carry while working |
| State law | - | MGL c.101 |
| Typical hours | - | 9 am to 7 pm |
| No soliciting signs | - | Must be honored |
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.
Somerville FAQ
How do I check if a solicitor is registered?
Ask for the Somerville badge. You can also call the Licensing Commission to verify before engaging.
Do religious or political canvassers need a permit?
First Amendment protections limit permit requirements on religious and political speech, but they still must follow time of day and no soliciting sign rules.
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