Door-to-Door Sales and Licensing

Several City offices have been made aware of concerns expressed online recently about door-to-door vendors and homeowner safety. Between June 1 and July 28, there were six calls to Cedar Rapids Police regarding door-to-door sales, and the City Clerk’s office has received several inquiries about licensing and sales rules.

In an effort to ensure homeowners are protected, the City Clerk’s office issues vendor licenses and these licenses must be displayed by all individuals participating in door-to-door sales. The City Clerk’s Office can be reached at 319-286-5060 or online.

Helpful Tips

To keep residents safe, there are some basic home security safety practices from the Cedar Rapids Police Department:

• Prevent unauthorized entry by locking your doors and windows at all times.
• You do not have to open your door for anyone you don’t wish to speak with.
• If at any time, you feel threatened, close and lock doors and call 911. Do not engage with unwelcome individuals.
• Install home security with cameras and register your camera with the CRPD for investigative purposes.
• Post “No Solicitation” or “No Trespassing” signage as a written warning to unwelcome guests.

There are a few specific rules to help you know if a vendor is acting legally:

• Door-to-door sales are not allowed after 8 PM
• Licensed vendors in Cedar Rapids are to display their City-issued permit at all times. (It will have a photo of the individual on it.) You can ask to see it at any time. If they do not have one, they are in violation of City code.
• Legitimate vendors should respond to simple requests to leave.
• The City encourages polite, respectful sales practices. If vendors become hostile or aggressive, seek safety and call the non-emergency hotline at 319-286-5491 with the vendor’s name, location and time of the interaction.

For more information about door-to-door vending rules and licensing, visit the City Clerk’s Office online.