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Soliciting and Canvassing

Township of OHara, PA  / The Code  / Part II: General Legislation

Chapter 157 Canvassing and Soliciting

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Township Council of the Township of O'Hara 9-12-2017 by Ord. No. 1325. Amendments noted where applicable.]

Homeowners
Recent Supreme Court and District Court decisions have changed the way solicitors may conduct business. Township Code has been updated to include these rulings. Now individuals who solicit door-to-door for charitable, religious or political groups are no longer required to obtain a permit from the Township. All individuals who solicit door-to-door for commercial purposes must still obtain a permit.

  • The courts have also ruled that to ensure no solicitors come to your door, it is now necessary to place a sign on your property. The sign should simply read NO SOLICITORS and be placed on your door or in a window.
  • Although for profit solicitors and canvassers have constitutional rights to conduct business in the Township, residents also have the right to keep these individuals from visiting their homes. Residents who do not wish to be solicited or canvassed by commercial solicitors may complete a No Soliciting and Canvassing Form at the Township Police office. The form may also be downloaded here and mailed to or dropped off at the Police office. A list of all properties where solicitors and canvassers are not welcome is given to all individuals or groups obtaining a solicitation permit from the Township. If you are visited by a solicitor and have filed such a form, notify the Police Department. In all circumstances, citizens are urged to ask solicitors to present their permits.

Solicitors/Canvassers 
Pursuant to the provisions of Township Code Chapter 157, as amended, Solicitors/Canvassers must apply for a Canvassers and Solicitors Registration Certificate. Solicitors or canvassers must complete a Canvassers and Solicitors Registration Application available at the Township Police office. The form may also be downloaded here for completion and submission to the Police Department.