Solicitation Laws in the Town of Chevy Chase

The Town of Chevy Chase has laws that regulate the activities of door-to door salesmen, also known as solicitors.  Any solicitor must have a valid license from both the County and Town to sell any goods or services to Town residents.  Solicitors also must file a bond with the Town to ensure compliance with Town laws and the delivery of any promised good and services.  Solicitations may take place from 9 am to sunset every day of the week. 
 
While the prescribed hours of solicitation apply to all commercial enterprises, they do not apply to organizations that solely express political or religious views and do not engage in the sale of goods or services.  Interest and advocacy groups, charitable organizations, political candidates and proselytizers  are some examples of those who are exempt from the prescribed solicitation hours as long as they are not offering anything for sale.    The Supreme Court has ruled that canvassing by these groups and individuals cannot be regulated as strictly as solicitation by commercial entities.
 
If a resident does not wish to be solicited, the Town recommends that the resident post a sign reading “No Solicitation of Any Kind” in a place conspicuous to all visitors.  If a solicitor or advocate does not leave a resident's property immediately upon being told to do so, the resident should call the police.