Stockton, CA Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Stockton Municipal Code Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) requires every person engaging in business within the City to obtain a Stockton business license; SMC Ch. 5.16 'Licenses or Permits Required' lists the categories of trade and occupation that require a license. The City's Revenue Services Division issues a Peddler/Solicitor License upon submission of a written application and the application fee. The application form (Peddler-Solicitor Application, posted on the City of Stockton website) requires the applicant's full name, address, ID, description of merchandise or services, vehicle information, and disclosure of any prior fraud or theft convictions. The license must be carried while soliciting and produced on demand. As clarified by U.S. Supreme Court precedent (Watchtower Bible v. Village of Stratton, 536 U.S. 150 (2002)), municipalities may not require permits as a precondition for non-commercial canvassing — religious, political, and pure-charitable advocacy is exempt from the commercial-license requirement. California Business & Professions Code §17500 prohibits false advertising and applies to in-home sales pitches. Cal. Civil Code §1689.6 gives buyers a 3-day right to cancel any home-solicitation contract over $25. SMC §9.36 (in some editions §9.40) covers disturbances and may be used to cite solicitors who refuse to leave after being asked.