San Marcos, TX Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit issuer
- San Marcos Police Department
- Fee
- $10.00
- Card validity
- 90 days
- Selling hours ban
- 9 p.m.-8 a.m.
- No-solicitation signs
- Enforceable, must be honored
Summary
San Marcos requires peddlers and solicitors to get a police-issued ID card before knocking on doors, valid 90 days for a $10 fee.
Any person desiring to act as a peddler or solicitor in the city shall make written application to the San Marcos Police Department for an identification card in accordance with this article... It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to act as a peddler or solicitor without having first applied for and obtained an identification card from the chief of police.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 41).
Full Breakdown
Anyone going door-to-door in San Marcos to sell goods or collect donations must first apply in writing to the San Marcos Police Department for an identification card, submitting a photo ID, address, birth date, SSN if available, a 7-year criminal history, and vehicle information. The card costs $10, lasts 90 days, and must be worn visibly on outer clothing while working. The chief of police can deny or revoke a card for a disqualifying conviction, false statements, or breach of the peace, with appeal rights to the city council. School, nonprofit-youth, scouting, and government/utility workers are exempt, as are canvassers.
Violations & Fines
Operating as a peddler or solicitor without a valid identification card, or without displaying it while working, is unlawful under Sec. 18.161(f)-(g); police may confiscate the card pending a revocation decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to sell door-to-door in San Marcos?
How much does the San Marcos peddler/solicitor card cost?
Are charities or school groups exempt?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Marcos
Texas rules heatmap·Compare San Marcos to another location·View the Texas soliciting & door-to-door overview
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