Solicitor Permits: Cambridge vs Lowell
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Cambridge and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Door-to-door solicitors and canvassers in Cambridge must obtain a Hawker and Peddler or Solicitor permit from the License Commission, carry ID, and honor posted No Soliciting signs.
View full Cambridge 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 | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Solicitor permit required for commercial sales | - |
| Issuer | Cambridge License Commission | - |
| Hours | 9 AM to 8 PM typical | 9 a.m. to sunset |
| Protected speech | Political or religious exempt from permit | - |
| Trespass | MGL c.266 s.120 enforces No Soliciting signs | MGL c.266 s.120 |
| State License | - | MGL c.101 hawkers-peddlers |
| City Permit | - | Lowell solicitor permit |
| Exempt | - | Religious, political, nonprofit |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Do political canvassers need a permit?
No. Political, religious, and charitable canvassing are protected by the First Amendment and exempt from permitting.
What if I post a No Soliciting sign?
Solicitors must honor it. Ignoring a posted sign can be charged as criminal trespass under state law.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Lowell compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool