Solicitor Permits: Auburn vs Seattle
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Auburn, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Auburn.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn requires a solicitor license under ACC 5.20.220 administered by the Auburn Police Department. Commercial door-to-door sales without a license are prohibited and subject to citation.
View full Auburn rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle regulates door-to-door solicitation through its business license requirements and consumer protection regulations, requiring commercial solicitors to carry identification and comply with consumer protection rules.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Code Reference | ACC 5.20.220 | - |
| Issuing Agency | Auburn Police Department | - |
| Background Check | Required | - |
| Order Rules | Written duplicate with permit number | - |
| Identification | - | Solicitors must carry and display identification |
| No Soliciting Signs | - | Solicitors must respect posted No Soliciting signs |
| Charitable Registration | - | Required under RCW 19.09 with WA Secretary of State |
| Consumer Protection | - | WA Consumer Protection Act (RCW 19.86) applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do door-to-door salespeople need a permit in Auburn?
Yes. Commercial solicitors must have an Auburn solicitor license under ACC 5.20.220 issued by the Auburn Police Department after a background check.
How do I check if an Auburn solicitor at my door is licensed?
Ask to see their Auburn solicitor permit (they must show it on demand). If suspicious, call Auburn Police non-emergency at 253-288-2121 to verify or report.
Seattle FAQ
Can solicitors ignore my No Soliciting sign in Seattle?
No. Solicitors are required to respect posted No Soliciting signs. If a solicitor ignores your sign, you can ask them to leave. If they refuse, they may be cited for trespassing. You can report persistent violations to the Seattle Police Department non-emergency line or file a consumer complaint with the Washington Attorney General's office.
Do charitable solicitors need to be registered?
Yes. Under Washington state law (RCW 19.09), charitable organizations that solicit donations must register with the Secretary of State's Charities Program. This applies to door-to-door, telephone, and mail solicitation. You can verify a charity's registration status online through the Secretary of State's website.
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