Solicitors and peddlers in San Mateo must comply with city business licensing requirements. The city regulates commercial solicitation to protect residents from aggressive or fraudulent practices. Religious and political canvassers are exempt from licensing under the First Amendment.
Commercial solicitation in San Mateo is regulated through the city's business licensing provisions. Solicitors and peddlers operating within city limits must obtain a business license. The city regulates door-to-door sales to protect residents from aggressive, deceptive, or fraudulent practices. Religious organizations and political canvassers are exempt from licensing requirements under the First Amendment. Non-profit charitable solicitation may have different requirements. Licensed solicitors must carry identification and their license while working. The San Mateo Police Department handles complaints about aggressive or suspicious solicitors at 650-522-7700.
Soliciting without a business license is a municipal code violation. Aggressive or fraudulent solicitation may result in criminal charges. Trespassing charges may apply for refusal to leave.
San Mateo, CA
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See how San Mateo's solicitor permits rules stack up against other locations.
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