Solicitor Permits: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Federal Way.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Door-to-door solicitors in Federal Way must obtain a Peddler/Solicitor/Transient Merchant License with a background check and Federal Way business registration. Permits include a photo ID badge that must be worn visibly.
View full Federal Way 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 | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Commercial solicitors, FWRC Title 12 | - |
| Background Check | WSP WATCH fingerprint check | - |
| Hours | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. typical | - |
| Exempt | Religious, political, charitable | - |
| 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.
Federal Way FAQ
Can I stop door-to-door sales people in my Federal Way neighborhood?
Yes. Post a No Soliciting sign at your door or driveway. Once posted, commercial solicitors must leave immediately or face misdemeanor trespass under RCW 9A.52.080. Call Federal Way Police for violators.
Do religious and political canvassers need a Federal Way permit?
No. Religious, political, and charitable non-profit canvassers are exempt from the commercial solicitor permit under First Amendment case law. They must still respect posted No Soliciting signs.
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.
Compare other topics
See how Federal Way and Seattle 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