No-Knock Registry: Kent vs Seattle
How do no-knock registry rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Kent and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Kent, WA
King County
Kent residents can post a No Soliciting sign to legally bar commercial door-to-door sales under KCC 5.02 and 9.02. Ignoring a posted sign constitutes criminal trespass enforceable by Kent Police.
View full Kent rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle residents can post No Soliciting signs that solicitors must legally respect, and trespass laws protect homeowners who ask solicitors to leave their property.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Sign Required | Post visibly at entrance | - |
| Commercial | Must leave immediately | - |
| Criminal Trespass | RCW 9A.52.080 misdemeanor | - |
| Non-Profit | Exempt but usually respectful | - |
| Posted Signs | - | No Soliciting signs must be respected by solicitors |
| Trespass Law | - | RCW 9A.52 – Criminal trespass for ignoring signs or refusal to leave |
| Do-Not-Knock Registry | - | No formal city registry; signs are the primary mechanism |
| Reporting | - | SPD non-emergency line for persistent violations |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Kent FAQ
Does a No Soliciting sign really work in Kent?
Yes. KCC 5.02.080 requires commercial solicitors to observe posted signs and immediately leave. Ignoring the sign becomes criminal trespass under state law. Call 253-856-5800 to report violators.
Can Girl Scouts or church groups ignore my No Soliciting sign?
Legally, religious and charitable non-profit canvassers are exempt from the commercial permit rules. However, most respect posted signs as a courtesy. You can politely ask them to leave and they are required to do so.
Seattle FAQ
Are No Soliciting signs legally enforceable in Seattle?
Yes. While No Soliciting signs are not a specific city ordinance requirement, they serve as notice under Washington's trespass law. Solicitors who ignore posted signs and enter your property may be cited for criminal trespass. You can also verbally ask solicitors to leave, and failure to comply is also trespass.
Does Seattle have a do-not-knock list?
No, Seattle does not maintain a formal do-not-knock registry. The most effective approach is posting a visible No Soliciting sign at your property entrance. You can report persistent unwanted solicitation to the SPD non-emergency line, especially if solicitors are ignoring posted signs or behaving aggressively.
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