Massachusetts Statewide Rule

Massachusetts Hawkers and Peddlers Statewide Licensing

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts requires hawkers and peddlers selling goods door-to-door to obtain a state license from the Division of Standards in addition to local permits.

Key Facts

Statute: G.L. c. 101
License Issuer: Division of Standards
Veteran Fee: Free under Sec. 22
Local Permit: Often also required

Source: Massachusetts General Court

Full Breakdown

G.L. c. 101 governs hawkers, peddlers, and transient vendors statewide. Hawkers (those who travel selling goods) and peddlers must obtain a state license from the Division of Standards. Section 17 requires displaying the license badge while soliciting. Veterans may obtain free hawker/peddler licenses under Section 22. Cities and towns may also require local solicitor permits under c. 101 Section 33, but the state license is a baseline statewide requirement that cannot be waived.

Violations & Penalties

Operating without a state license is punishable by fines up to $200 per offense and seizure of goods under G.L. c. 101 Section 28.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nonprofit and political solicitors covered?

No. G.L. c. 101 applies to commercial sales of goods. Religious, charitable, and political canvassing is generally protected by the First Amendment but may be subject to local registration.

What does the state license cost?

The Division of Standards charges $62 annually for hawker and peddler licenses for non-veterans; veterans receive licenses without charge under c. 101 Section 22.

Sources

G.L. c. 101 - Hawkers and Peddlers

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Are nonprofit and political solicitors covered?

No. G.L. c. 101 applies to commercial sales of goods. Religious, charitable, and political canvassing is generally protected by the First Amendment but may be subject to local registration.

What does the state license cost?

The Division of Standards charges $62 annually for hawker and peddler licenses for non-veterans; veterans receive licenses without charge under c. 101 Section 22.