Door to Door Solicitors
Charleston residents are reminded to be aware of door-to-door sales people, particularly “magazine sales”. Usually the concerns about these individuals are property / financial-crime related.
Tips:
1. Post a “NO SOLICITING” sign on your front door, and maybe another in the yard. (One at the front of the neighborhood is not enforceable)
2. DO NOT Open the door to any strangers
3. If someone claims to be from a utility or law enforcement, Request to see ID (through window) and look for an official vehicle.
4. If they are “selling” anything, know that it is perfectly fine to tell them you are not interested, to please leave.
5. If you are interested, request to see their Peddler’s Permit from the City of Charleston (again through the window - see example below)
Know that solicitors are probably breaking the law if they do any of these:
1) Knock IN SPITE of a “NO SOLICITING” sign
2) Do Not have a City Peddler’s Permit with them(and their company is to have a Business Permit)
3) Tell you the magazine sale can be donated to be delivered to a charity (like the Boys & Girls club, etc) 4) If they use ANY High Pressure or Intimidation or will not leave
What to do:
Call Charleston Police at 577-7434, give a description of the subject and their direction of travel, so an officer can interview them. (Ask to speak to the officer so he can get more details). If they are operating within the law, you'll be advised. If not, they will be dealt with accordingly.