Chelsea, MA Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Door-to-door solicitation in Suffolk County follows a dual state/city framework. Massachusetts state law (MGL c. 101 §§12A-33) requires commercial peddlers and hawkers to obtain a state Hawkers and Peddlers License from the Division of Standards ($62 fee, passport photo, background check). Separately, Boston requires a city-issued Hawkers & Peddlers permit from the City Clerk's Office under Boston Municipal Code §17-1, with its own application, fee, and background check. Commercial solicitors must carry both licenses visibly while canvassing. Chelsea, Revere, and Winthrop each issue their own local solicitor permits under MGL c. 101 §33 (which reserves municipal authority). Solicitation hours in Boston are typically 9:00 AM to sunset or 8:00 PM. Religious, political, and pure charitable (non-commercial) canvassing is protected under the First Amendment per Watchtower Society v. Village of Stratton (2002) and Martin v. City of Struthers (1943) — no-permit no-badge required for pure speech. Charitable solicitors raising funds must register with the MA Attorney General's Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities Division under MGL c. 68 §§18-35.