No-Knock Registry: Mountain View vs Palo Alto
How do no-knock registry rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Palo Alto, CA?
Mountain View and Palo Alto have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View recognizes No Soliciting signs as legally enforceable. Ignoring a posted sign after notice can result in a citation or trespass complaint, even for activity otherwise protected as speech.
View full Mountain View rules →Palo Alto, CA
Santa Clara County
Palo Alto residents may post No Solicitation signs to bar commercial solicitors from their property. Violating a posted sign is a citable offense and can also be treated as trespass.
View full Palo Alto rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Palo Alto |
|---|---|---|
| Sign placement | Main entry or gate, visible | - |
| Sign effect | Legally enforceable | Bars commercial solicitation |
| Applies to | All solicitors including expressive | - |
| State backup | Penal Code 602 trespass | - |
| Report number | (650) 903-6344 | - |
| Sign location | - | At or near main entrance |
| Trespass law | - | CA Penal Code 602 |
| Non-commercial | - | Must leave upon request |
| Report | - | (650) 329-2413 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Does a No Soliciting sign stop political canvassers?
In Mountain View, yes. The ordinance applies to all solicitation, and ignoring the sign after notice can constitute an infraction or trespass.
What should my sign say?
Clear language like No Soliciting or No Trespassing works. Post it at eye level on or near the main door or gate so visitors cannot miss it.
Palo Alto FAQ
Does a No Solicitation sign actually matter?
Yes. Commercial solicitors who ignore a visibly posted No Solicitation sign can be cited and may also be charged with trespass.
What about political or religious canvassers?
They have stronger First Amendment protections and are not always bound by the sign, but they must leave immediately if asked by the resident.
How do I report a violator?
Note their name, permit number, company, and vehicle, then call Palo Alto Police dispatch at (650) 329-2413 while they are still in the area.
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