Solicitation is not permitted on sidewalks or streets in Mt. Lebanon. However, solicitors and canvassers—whether they’re asking for donations for sports organizations, collecting signatures and contributions for clean water, or selling discount car wash coupons—are permitted in residential neighborhoods between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., provided they follow proper procedures.
All solicitors who are selling a product or service must complete an application, available from the Mt. Lebanon Police Department, pay a $50 non-refundable fee and pass a police background check. The process takes about 10 days, and if any felony history shows up on the background check, the permit is automatically denied.
Please take into account that solicitors and canvassers are different by definition and requirements. Canvassers who are travelling door to door to share information on their political, religious or environmental causes do not need a permit. Canvassers can ask for donations or signatures to support their mission.
A permit allows solicitors to work, but it does not require anyone to talk with them. Post a small “no solicitation” sign in your window, and solicitors may not approach your residence at any time. Post a “no evening solicitation” sign and solicitors will be permitted on your property only between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. If you post a sign, but a solicitor still rings your doorbell, call 911. It is a violation of the permit, and is punishable by a fine of up to $300 and revocation of the permit. Be advised that “no solicitation” signs do not apply to canvassers.
Permits issued by Mt. Lebanon do not include a photo, but all solicitors must carry a photo ID and produce it upon request, along with the name, address and phone number of the organization they represent and the purpose of the solicitation. If you don’t get the answer you’re looking for, call 911.
Keep in mind that you do not have to open your door to anyone, ever. If a stranger rings your bell, it’s always a good idea to take safety precautions. Instead of opening the door, talk through a locked screen door and never let someone you don’t know inside your house. We’ll say it one more time…Call 911 if you have any concerns at all!
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