Why do solicitors need a license in St. Louis Park?
The City Code requires a license. City Code: Chapter 8 Business Licenses; Division 4 Temporary Uses; Secs. 8-555—8—570 Subdivision V. Peddlers, For-Profit Solicitors and Transient Merchants.
Who needs to complete a permit application?
Each individual seeking to conduct business as a transient merchant, peddler or solicitor must complete an application. A license is not required to canvas in St. Louis Park.
When do I need to pay the application fee?
All applications for a peddler or transient merchant license should be accompanied by the fee set by the city. You may not pay in advance for individuals who will be applying for a license. The application(s) must be accompanied with the fee.
Can I fax in the organization's applications and copies of a valid government-issued photo ID?
No. Each person applying for a license must present his/her application and valid government-issued photo ID in person. In addition, the license application must be accompanied by the fee.
What types of valid government photo IDs are accepted when submitting an application?
A valid driver's license, state-issued ID or passport.
What documents do we need to submit other than the application and a valid government-issued ID?
If applicable, submit your organization's workers' compensation certificate (Certificate of Liability Insurance).
Do I need a license to hang an advertisement on residents' doors?
No, a license is not needed. However, you cannot knock on the door or have contact with the residents. The item you hang must be secure and not blow away. If the resident has a "No Solicitor" sign posted, do not leave the advertisement and do not go onto the property.
Do I need a license if I want to canvas in St. Louis Park?
No. A license is not required to canvas for contributions or support for any charitable, religious, civic, educational, philanthropic, social service or welfare organization.
I am not a US citizen. Can I still apply for a license?
Yes. If you have a work Visa and a government-issued ID (valid passport from your country).
How do I know if my company is a nonprofit organization?
Ask the organization you are representing. A nonprofit will file for 501(c)3 tax-exempt status. Nonprofits are organized for purposes other than generating a profit and in which no part of the organization’s income is distributed to its members, directors, shareholders or officers.
How long does it take to process the peddler or transient merchant license application?
The city will process the license within 15 days of receiving the application. When completed, please come in person to the police department between Tuesday – Thursday, 9 – 11:30 a.m. with your ID and fee (if applicable). The city will issue the license unless grounds exist for denying the license application under City Code Sec. 8-575.
Can I solicit as a peddler or transient merchant in St. Louis Park while I am waiting for my license to be approved?
No. It is unlawful to solicit without a license.
How will I know when my peddler or transient merchant license is approved?
The contact person listed on the application will be called Monday – Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. When there are multiple applications processed for one business/organization, designate one person to be the contact person and he/she will be called.
When can I pick up my approved peddler or transient merchant license?
License are issued Tuesday – Thursday, 9 – 11:30 a.m. You must bring in your valid government-issued photo ID. Solicitor licenses are issued when the completed application is received, and the required identification is presented to the police department.
What happens if my peddler or transient merchant license is denied?
You will be notified in writing of the decision. If you listed a group contact name, the contact person will be notified that it was denied, and the applicant will be notified in writing of the decision.
If my peddler or transient merchant license is denied, is the fee refunded?
Yes.
How long is the license valid?
The license is valid for one year and the expiration date is listed on the license.
How do I renew my license?
You need to reapply and complete the same application as a new solicitor, peddler or transient merchant.
I have an application form from a previous year. May I use it to apply or reapply for a license this year?
No. You need to obtain a current years' application.
What should I do if I lose my license and is there a fee?
Call 952.924.2600. If your license is still active, a new one will be issued, using the original expiration date. There is no need to complete another application or have a new picture taken. The fee is $25 for a duplicate license.
Do I need to wear my license?
The license is in the form of a permit and lists your name, company name, license number and the license expiration date. You must have your license on you and present your license in such a way as to be conspicuous at all times while soliciting in the city.
Can I transfer my license to another person?
No. The license issued can't be transferred to any person other than the person to whom the license was issued.
May I solicit when I see a sign the resident posted stating, "No Solicitors?"
No. Do not approach the resident or the property. Refer to City Code Sec. 8-579. In addition, solicitors are prohibited from remaining on the property of another person after being requested to leave.