Solicitor Permits: Cary vs Raleigh
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC?
Cary and Raleigh have similar restriction levels.
Cary, NC
Wake County
Wake County does not require a county-wide permit for door-to-door solicitors in unincorporated areas, but each city has its own permit (Raleigh §12-3001, Cary §10-44, Apex §16, Wake Forest §10-7-2). Solicitors must respect 'No Solicitors' signs under most local rules.
View full Cary rules →Raleigh, NC
Wake County
Door-to-door solicitors in Raleigh must obtain a solicitor's permit from the city under Raleigh City Code Part 12, Chapter 3. The permit application requires identification, background check information, and details about the solicitation activities. Solicitors must carry their permit while soliciting and display it upon request. Religious organizations and political canvassers are generally exempt from permit requirements under constitutional protections.
View full Raleigh rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cary | Raleigh |
|---|---|---|
| County permit | Not required | - |
| Raleigh permit | $25, 90 days | - |
| Raleigh hours | 9 AM - 9 PM | - |
| Religious/political | Exempt fee | - |
| No Solicitors sign | Legally binding | - |
| Code Reference | - | Raleigh Code Pt. 12, Ch. 3 |
| Permit Required | - | Yes — for commercial door-to-door solicitation |
| Display | - | Must carry and display permit on request |
| Exemptions | - | Religious and political canvassers exempt |
| Background Check | - | May be required with application |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cary FAQ
Can I post a 'No Solicitors' sign?
Yes — most Wake cities legally require solicitors to honor the sign. Violators can be charged with trespass under NCGS §14-159.13.
Do religious groups need a permit?
Most Wake cities exempt religious and political canvassing from fees but still require ID display. Knock between local permitted hours.
What time can solicitors knock?
Raleigh: 9 AM - 9 PM. Cary: 9 AM - 7 PM. Each city sets its own window.
Raleigh FAQ
Do solicitors need a permit in Raleigh?
Yes. Commercial door-to-door solicitors must obtain a solicitor's permit from the city. The permit must be carried during solicitation and shown upon request.
Are all door-to-door visitors required to have permits?
No. Religious organizations, political canvassers, and nonprofit charitable solicitors are generally exempt from permit requirements. Commercial solicitors selling goods or services need a permit.
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