Township Officials Seek to Curb Door-to-Door Solicitors

The do-not-call lists have helped make a dent in the bothersome telephone marketers, but there have not been many tools available to prevent those knocks on the door that always come at the worst time. 

Homeowners in Warminster have a little extra help dealing with the in-person sales calls after the recent passage of a new ordinance by the board of supervisors. 

As a result of the new ordinance, 'No Solicitation' signs have been created that residents or business owners can either pick up at the township administration building or print out at home. Place the sign in clear view on the front window, and salesman will not be permitted to solicit on the property.

The ordinance also requires all potential solicitors to receive a permit from the township and prominently wear an identification badge that includes, at the very least, a name and photograph. They need to contact the Warminster Police Department and have a background check performed. The permits are good for six months, after which a new application must be submitted for renewal.

Religious and political organizations are exempt from the ordinance, according to township Supervisor Leo Quinn.

Solicitation is also prohibited in Warminster after 5 p.m. Any violations of the ordinance will result in a fine between $375 and $1,000. Failure to pay could result in as much as 90 days in county prison.