Tompkins County, NY Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

" Section 127-4 requires the applicant to file a written application with the Sheriff, including character references from three different communities from the Sheriff, Chamber of Commerce, or Better Business Bureau, plus a certificate from the sealer of weights and measures if scales are used. Anyone who takes payment in advance of delivery must also post a $1,000 bond to the county. Section 127-6 sets license fees at $50 per year for the first vehicle used ($10/month, $20 minimum for shorter terms), $25 per year for each additional vehicle, and $25 per year ($10 minimum) where no vehicle is used.

Under § 127-5, the Sheriff issues the license unless there is a specific reason tied to public safety, health, morals, or general welfare, and the license is not assignable. Section 127-3 exempts merchants with an established county place of business, farmers selling their own produce, private/garage sales, and local charitable, religious, or civic organizations; out-of-county charities must instead obtain a $5 certificate of exemption from the Sheriff. Section 127-9 requires solicitors taking advance payment to give the purchaser a written statement of the order terms. The Sheriff can revoke a license at any time for a chapter violation under § 127-8, with notice served personally or by certified mail.