Solicitor Permits: Ontario vs San Bernardino
How do solicitor permits rules compare between Ontario, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Ontario.
Ontario, CA
San Bernardino County
Door-to-door commercial solicitors in Ontario must obtain a Peddler, Solicitor, and Itinerant Merchant permit from the City, submit to a background check, and display the permit badge while working.
View full Ontario rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino Municipal Code 5.30 requires commercial door-to-door solicitors to get a City Clerk permit and pass a background check. Religious canvassers are exempt but must honor No Soliciting signs.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ontario | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Required for commercial sales | - |
| Background check | Live Scan fingerprinting | - |
| Allowed hours | 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sunset | - |
| Badge | Must be worn visibly | - |
| Contact | Ontario PD Records (909) 408-1700 | - |
| Legal authority | - | Municipal Code Chapter 5.30 |
| Permit required | - | For commercial door-to-door solicitors |
| Hours | - | Generally 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM |
| Exemptions | - | Religious, political, and charitable canvassers |
| No Solicitation signs | - | Enforceable under Penal Code 602 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ontario FAQ
Is door-to-door sales legal in Ontario?
Yes, but commercial solicitors must hold a current Ontario Solicitor Permit, display the City badge, and only work between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. or sunset.
Do religious or political canvassers need a permit?
Generally no. The First Amendment protects noncommercial canvassing, but canvassers must still honor No Solicitors signs and leave when asked.
San Bernardino FAQ
How do I know if a door-to-door salesperson is licensed in San Bernardino?
Ask to see their city solicitor permit. You can also verify by calling the City Clerk at (909) 384-5002 during business hours. Anyone refusing to show a permit should be reported to the police.
Can religious groups ignore my No Soliciting sign?
Religious canvassers are exempt from permit requirements but must honor clearly posted No Soliciting signs. Ignoring a posted sign is trespass under Penal Code 602(o).
What should I do if a salesperson will not leave?
Firmly tell them to leave and close the door. If they persist, call the San Bernardino Police non-emergency line at (909) 383-5311. Continued presence after being asked to leave is trespass.
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