Rockville, MD Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

The City of Rockville regulates door-to-door soliciting and peddling through its municipal code. Commercial solicitors and peddlers must obtain a solicitor permit from the City Clerk's office at 240-314-8280 before going door to door. The application requires valid government-issued identification, a description of the goods or services to be offered, the name and address of the employing organization, and consent to a criminal background check. The city may deny permits to applicants with certain criminal convictions, particularly those involving fraud, theft, or violent offenses. Approved permits must be worn visibly and displayed to any resident upon request. Permitted solicitation hours are typically between 9:00 AM and 8:00 PM (or sunset, whichever is earlier). Soliciting before or after permitted hours is a violation. The permit is valid for a specified period, usually 30 to 90 days, and must be renewed for continued activity. Exemptions from the permit requirement apply to religious organizations, political campaigns, nonprofit charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and government officials. These groups may canvass without a permit but must still comply with time-of-day restrictions and no-solicitation sign requirements. Montgomery County has separate solicitation regulations that may apply in areas outside Rockville city limits. Contact the City Clerk at 240-314-8280 for permit applications and the Rockville City Police at 240-314-8900 to report unauthorized solicitors.