Solicitor Permits: Kent vs Seattle
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Kent, WA and Seattle, WA?
Seattle has fewer restrictions than Kent.
Kent, WA
King County
Door-to-door solicitors in Kent must obtain a Solicitor Permit from Kent Police with a background check and Kent business license under KCC 5.02. Permits cost around 75 dollars and include a photo ID badge.
View full Kent 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 | Kent | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Commercial solicitors, KCC 5.02 | - |
| Fee | Around 75 dollars, background check | - |
| Hours | 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon-Sat | - |
| 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.
Kent FAQ
Can I stop door-to-door sales people in my Kent neighborhood?
Yes. Post a No Soliciting sign at your door or driveway entrance. Once posted, commercial solicitors must leave immediately or face misdemeanor trespass under RCW 9A.52.080. Call Kent Police for violations.
Do Jehovah's Witnesses and political canvassers need a Kent permit?
No. Religious, political, and charitable non-profit canvassers are exempt from the 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.
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