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

Door-to-door solicitation in Union County is governed by the NJ Hawkers and Peddlers Act (N.J.S.A. 45:24-1 et seq.) and municipal ordinances. Elizabeth Revised Ordinances Chapter 5.32 requires commercial solicitors to apply through the Elizabeth Police Department with fingerprinting, criminal history check via NJ State Police, photograph, and $100-$250 fee. Permits are valid 30-180 days. Solicitation hours are restricted to 9 AM to 7 PM daily, with no solicitation on Sundays or state holidays. ID badges must be visible. Westfield Code §11-23 requires Town Clerk permits with police background review. Summit Code §28 similarly requires police-vetted permits. Cranford Code §147 requires 14-day advance application. Plainfield permits through Police Division. Union Township, Rahway, Linden, and Roselle require municipal clerk permits. Religious canvassing (Watchtower, Mormon missionaries), political canvassing (campaigns, petitions), and certain nonprofit solicitation are constitutionally protected under the First Amendment and typically exempt from permit requirements, though many municipalities still require notification. Charitable solicitors must register with NJ Division of Consumer Affairs Charities Registration Section under the NJ Charitable Registration and Investigation Act (N.J.S.A. 45:17A-18 et seq.). Residents may call police to verify solicitor credentials.