Edison, NJ Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Edison's Chapter 11 distinguishes commercial peddling/soliciting from political/charitable canvassing. A 'peddler' is defined as a person 'commonly referred to either as a peddler or hawker who goes from place to place by traveling on the streets or from house to house and carries with him or her goods, wares and merchandise.' A 'solicitor' is similarly defined as one who travels 'taking or attempting to take orders for the sale of books, wares and merchandise, personal property of any nature whatsoever for future delivery, or for services to be furnished or performed in the future.' All such commercial actors must first pay the township the required license fee, complete an application with the Township Clerk, submit to a criminal-history background check, and carry the license/identification badge during operations. Political-campaign, charitable, and religious canvassing fall under §11-2.2 'Canvassing or Soliciting in Connection with Political Campaign or Charitable or Religious Organization' - these are constitutionally protected activities (Watchtower Bible v. Stratton, 536 U.S. 150, 2002) and Edison cannot require a fee-based license for them, but the township can require a no-fee registration and identification. Solicitation hours are typically limited (often 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier). Residents may post a 'No Soliciting' sign at the entrance, and Edison's ordinance creates a separate violation for soliciting at any home displaying such a notice.