The warmer weather means an uptick in door-to-door solicitation, so Cheltenham Township wants to remind residents that they have an ordinance for that.
Spring is a busy time for solicitation because it’s remodeling season for things like windows, decks etc. All year there have been permits issued to energy companies asking residents to switch from PECO, so you may see these folks out going door to door.
The Soliciting Ordinance 2263-13 requires companies to register each individual for a permit if they intend to solicit door to door. Non-profits and political organizations do not have to secure a permit or register, but some register anyway.
The Commissioners of Cheltenham Township amended the ordinance in 2013 to allow residents to enroll their homes on a “Do Not Solicit” registry. If residents choose to enroll in this program their address will be supplied to properly permitted solicitors with strict instructions their house is not to be visited.
The township says that if a solicitor comes to the door and does not have a permit call 911 and ask the responding officer check to see it the person had a valid permit. Please call at the time the person is at their home and not later. If you call later the Police Department can’t warn or cite the solicitor if they don’t have a permit.