Knock Knock: What to Know About Door-to-Door Soliciting in Arlington

Published on March 31, 2026

By Arlington Police Communications

As the weather warms up, so does the number of door-to-door salespeople soliciting business in neighborhoods. While door-to-door sales are allowed in the City of Arlington, salespeople must follow strict guidelines to ensure compliance with city ordinances.

• City ordinance requires salespeople to apply for and receive a city license in order to engage in door-to-door sales. They’re also required to display the license so that it is visible to residents while they’re going door-to-door.

• Door-to-door sales are prohibited before 9 a.m. and after dusk/sunset, unless there is a prior invitation from an occupant of a private residence.

• Door-to-door salespeople are not allowed to ring doorbells/knock on doors where a “No Soliciting” sign is posted. * For residents: No Soliciting or No Solicitation signs must be no less than 12 square inches in size and sign lettering should be no less than two-thirds of an inch in height.

Any violations of the rules by salespeople can result in fines of up to $500, as well as the suspension or revocation of their door-to-door license. Residents who wish to report violations can do so by contacting the Arlington Police Department’s non-emergency line at (817) 274-4444.

APD encourages residents to watch out for red flags and to make smart, safe decisions if a door-to-door salesperson comes to their home.

• If a salesperson comes to your door and you don’t feel comfortable speaking with them, then don’t. You do not have to answer the door. You can also tell them through the door that you’re not interested in what they’re selling.

• If you’re unsure whether a salesperson is legitimate, ask to see their city license and / or other identification verifying they are employed by the company they claim to work for. If they don’t have a license or ID, don’t give them any money and ask them to leave.

• NEVER let a salesperson you don’t know or that you did not solicit yourself enter your home.

• Remember, you can ask a salesperson to leave your home at any time. If a salesperson refuses to leave after being asked or becomes irate, shut the door. If they still don’t leave, call 911.

• Never feel guilted into giving a salesperson money or buying their product / service. If a salesperson aggressively pressures you into giving them money, that could be a sign of a scam. End the conversation and ask them to leave.

Always listen to your gut and don’t do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. Residents can always call 911 or APD’s non-emergency line for assistance.