Universal City, TX Soliciting & Door-to-Door: Solicitor Permits (2026)

Universal City requires commercial door-to-door solicitors, peddlers, and transient merchants to register with the Police Department and obtain a solicitor permit before going door-to-door to residences. The application typically requires photo identification, a criminal background check, proof of the business for which the person is soliciting, and a nominal permit fee. Permitted hours are typically 9:00 AM to sunset, and solicitation is prohibited at residences posting No Soliciting signs, which creates both a permit violation and a criminal trespass basis under Texas Penal Code 30.05. Permits are denied to applicants with recent convictions for fraud, theft, or offenses involving dishonesty. Non-commercial activity including religious proselytizing, political canvassing, and charitable solicitation by recognized nonprofits is exempt from the permit requirement under First Amendment protections established by the Supreme Court in Watchtower v. Stratton. Residents who feel pressured or suspect fraud should call Universal City Police at 210-658-5353 and request the solicitor display their city permit.