Solicitor Permits: Cambridge vs Waltham
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Door-to-door solicitors and peddlers in Waltham must obtain a city permit from the Police Department or License Commission. Permits require background checks and identification to be worn.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Solicitor permit required for commercial sales | - |
| Issuer | Cambridge License Commission | - |
| Hours | 9 AM to 8 PM typical | - |
| Protected speech | Political or religious exempt from permit | - |
| Trespass | MGL c.266 s.120 enforces No Soliciting signs | - |
| Permit Required | - | Commercial solicitors |
| Issuing Agency | - | Police or License Commission |
| Background Check | - | CORI required |
| Typical Hours | - | 9:00 AM to sunset |
| No Soliciting Signs | - | Must be honored |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Do door-to-door salespeople need a Waltham permit?
Yes. Commercial solicitors must obtain a city permit, pass a CORI background check, and display identification while canvassing.
Are political canvassers covered?
Political, religious, and charitable canvassers have First Amendment protections and are typically exempt from commercial permits.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Waltham 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