Solicitor Permits: Des Plaines vs Evanston
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Des Plaines, IL and Evanston, IL?
Evanston has fewer restrictions than Des Plaines.
Des Plaines, IL
Cook County
Des Plaines requires door-to-door solicitors and peddlers to register with the City Clerk and obtain a permit before conducting commercial canvassing. Applicants undergo a background check and must display a city-issued ID badge while working.
View full Des Plaines rules →Evanston, IL
Cook County
Door-to-door solicitation in unincorporated Cook County is regulated under Chapter 58 (Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions). Solicitors may be required to register or obtain permits. First Amendment protections apply to political and religious canvassing.
View full Evanston rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Des Plaines | Evanston |
|---|---|---|
| Issuing Office | City Clerk | - |
| Background Check | Required (PD) | - |
| ID Badge | Must be displayed | - |
| Hours | 9 AM - 8 PM typical | Reasonable daytime only |
| Exemptions | Religious, political, charitable | - |
| Code | - | Ch. 58 |
| Political/Religious | - | Permit-exempt |
| Enforcement | - | Sheriff's Office |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Des Plaines FAQ
How do I report a suspicious solicitor in Des Plaines?
Call Des Plaines Police non-emergency at (847) 391-5400. Ask to see the solicitor's city-issued permit badge. If they cannot produce one, they are operating illegally.
Do Girl Scouts and church groups need a permit?
Noncommercial, charitable, religious, and political canvassers are generally exempt under First Amendment protections, but may register voluntarily.
How do I get a solicitor permit?
Apply at the City Clerk's office in Des Plaines City Hall (1420 Miner St) with photo ID, employer info, fingerprints, and the application fee.
Evanston FAQ
Are door-to-door salespeople allowed in Cook County?
Commercial solicitors may need permits under Chapter 58. Political and religious canvassers are protected by the First Amendment and cannot be required to obtain permits.
How do I stop solicitors?
Post a 'No Soliciting' sign. Report aggressive or fraudulent solicitors to the Cook County Sheriff's Office.
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