Birmingham, AL Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Birmingham Code Chapter 11 Article III requires commercial door-to-door solicitors, peddlers, and transient merchants to obtain a Peddler's License from the City Revenue Department (205-254-2198). Application requires a background check through the Birmingham Police Department, proof of identification, description of goods or services, and a fee (typically $50 to $150 annually depending on category). Licensees must carry the license and a visible photo ID badge while canvassing. Solicitation hours restricted to 9 AM to 9 PM or sunset, whichever is earlier. Hoover Code §18-1 requires similar permits with background check. Vestavia Hills, Mountain Brook, Homewood, and Trussville each maintain solicitor permit requirements. Religious canvassing (door-to-door evangelism), political campaigning, and non-commercial charitable solicitation are protected under the First Amendment per Watchtower Bible & Tract Society v. Village of Stratton (2002) and cannot require permits. Commercial charitable solicitors (telemarketing firms soliciting on behalf of nonprofits) require registration with the Alabama Attorney General under Ala. Code §13A-9-70 (Alabama Solicitation of Charitable Funds Act). Jefferson County under Home Rule permits similar regulation in unincorporated areas.