Davidson County, TN Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Metro Nashville Code Title 6 Chapter 6.28 governs transient vendors, peddlers, and door-to-door solicitors. Commercial solicitors engaging in home sales (security systems, satellite TV, home improvement, magazine subscriptions) must apply for a Transient Vendor/Peddler Permit through the Metro Codes Department or the Davidson County Clerk. Application requirements: completed form, photo ID, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) background check (approximately $29 fee), proof of current business tax license (TCA §67-4-701), liability insurance certificate, product/service description, and permit fee (varies by duration, typically $50-$150). Each individual solicitor (not just the company) must obtain an ID badge displaying name, photo, company, and permit expiration—required to be visibly worn per Metro Code §6.28.050. Soliciting hours restricted to 9 AM to 8 PM or sunset (whichever is later) under Metro Code §6.28.060. Permits typically issued for 30, 60, or 90 days. Religious and political canvassing (door-to-door evangelism, political campaign, signature gathering for ballot measures) are exempt under First Amendment precedent (Watchtower Bible v. Stratton, 2002). Charitable solicitations fall under TN Charitable Solicitations Act (TCA §48-101-501 et seq.) with registration through TN Secretary of State, not Metro. Nashville has become a target market for aggressive pest control and solar sales companies in summer months, leading to increased residential complaints via hubNashville 311. Failure to carry or display badge when soliciting is a primary enforcement trigger. Satellite cities (Belle Meade, Forest Hills, Oak Hill) have separate solicitor ordinances, often stricter.