San Marino : Solicitation Law Updated

The City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to update a 1930s ordinance that restricts door-to-door solicitations, extending its provisions to commercial areas and creating an exception for charitable groups.

Under the amended law, anyone can prohibit solicitations merely by posting a “do not disturb” or “no solicitation” sign. The original ordinance applied only to residential areas and could be invoked only by being placed on a list maintained by the city. There are 1,500 names on that list.

The city will maintain an open “no solicitation” list of residents and businesses not wishing to be bothered by salespeople and those passing out leaflets and handbills.

Violation of the law is a misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail.

Nonprofit charitable organizations such as religious groups, the Boy and Girl scouts, and the Salvation Army will be required to obtain a city permit.