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1. Who is a canvasser, solicitor, or peddler?

• Canvasser means any person whose primary purpose is to enlist support for or against a particular religion, philosophy, ideology, political party, issue, or candidate.
• Peddler means any person who carries goods, wares, merchandise or personal property with them and offers it for sale for a purely commercial purpose.
• Solicitor means any person who takes orders for goods for future delivery, or for services to be performed in the future, including requesting a contribution of funds or selling goods or services for non-commercial purposes.

2. Do I need a permit?

• Canvasser - No
• Peddler and Solicitor - Yes

3. What do I need to apply for a permit?

• A valid Texas Driver's License or state-issued photo identification.
• The number of the limited sales tax permit issued to the business by the state comptroller's office, if applicable.
• A brief description of the activity or business to be conducted.
• The appropriate fee.
• Proof of status necessary to receive an exception under Section 28-11 or 28-16 of the Abilene City Code.

4. What are permit exemptions?

• Any solicitation in the form of a collection at a regular meeting, assembly, or service of a charitable person
• Solicitations are being made upon premises owned or occupied by an organization upon whose behalf the solicitation is made (example: such as a church soliciting those attending the church on their own property)
• A solicitor or peddler is already licensed by the state to engage in the activity (must provide proof)

5. What is the fee?

• 30-day permit - $50
• Fee for each additional worker/solicitor - $30
• Yearly application (local business only) - $100
• Yearly fee for additional worker/solicitor - $30

Exceptions to the Fee

Permit fees are not required for religious groups, charities, farmers' markets, and educational organizations.

6. What is the issuance of permit?

Upon completion of the application, the city licensing officer shall issue a permit to the applicant within five business days, unless grounds for denial exist. For questions call 325-676-6208 or 325-676-6202.

Documents

• Map of Prohibited Intersections (PDF)
• Solicitation Brochure (PDF)