Solicitation Ordinances

medPermit_2.JPG Hudsonville has in place a solicitation ordinance that you should be aware of. The ordinance was adopted as a means of regulating door-to-door sales solicitors, and was drafted in response to numerous complaints we’ve received about solicitors. Complaints include instances of where solicitors were too pushy or aggressive in their sales techniques, were using offensive language or behavior, were ignoring posted “No Solicitation” signage, or were soliciting during late hours.

The ordinance seeks to address these types of complaints by requiring would-be solicitors to pre-register with the city and to abide by certain requirements for solicitation within the city. By requiring all solicitors to pre-register, the city is able collect background information on solicitors so that if there is a problem, we have a means of identifying and taking enforcement against any violators of the ordinance.

All registered solicitors must:

  • Obey all private signage restricting door-to-door sales such as “No Trespassing” or “No Solicitors” signs;
  • Not attempt to sell merchandise or services against the wishes of the resident;
  • Not to use excessive noise or flashing lights as a means of attracting attention;
  • Not solicit after 7:00 p.m., before 9:00 a.m., or on Sundays (unless by appointment).

It is also noted that the new ordinance is not intended to prohibit non-profit type entities that are typically well-received by the community such as Girl Scouts selling cookies, school fundraisers, etc. These groups still must contact the city to obtain a permit, but may be exempt.

A Solicitor is defined as any individual(s) traveling either by foot, wagon, auto­mobile, motor truck or any other types of conveyance, from place to place, taking or attempting to take orders for the sale of any goods, wares, and merchandise, personal property for current or future delivery, or for services to be furnished or performed currently or in the future.

Finally, the new solicitation ordinance requires all pre-registered solicitors to identify themselves as such by wearing (or being able to produce) a Solicitation Permit tag such as the one shown above.

If you have someone without a lanyard that stops by your house, please contact our office between 8 am & 5pm at 669-0200 x 1412.  After hours, please contact the Ottawa County Central Dispatch at 1-800-249-0911. 

FAQs:

Where do I find the Solicitation Ordinance 

Click Here

Who do I contact if I see a solicitor without a City of Hudsonville Solicitation Permit lanyard? 

Call the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department at (800) 249-0911

Who do I contact for a Solicitation Permit? 

Jill Gruppen is the person that processes Solicitation Permits.  Her contact number is 669-0200 #1436

Where do I find the Solicitation Permit application? 

Click here