LIVONIA, Mich. (WXYZ) — As summer arrives, you're more likely to hear a knock at the door you probably don't want.
It's the season for knocking on doors, and not everyone is happy about it.
One Livonia mom says unwanted solicitors even wake up the kids right after she puts them to sleep.
"We have a 'No Soliciting' sign, and it's their nap time. And they knock on the door anyway and wake them up. The dog barks, and we have to start the process all over again," said said.
‘Tis the season for door knockers!! Do you know your rights when it comes to solicitors? Tune in 630am Thursday! Don’t make me come knocking 😜@wxyzdetroit https://t.co/ER5fTJxol9
— Jennifer Ann Wilson (@JennaWils) May 30, 2019
Another neighbor kept it simple, "I don’t answer my door unless I know somebody’s going to be coming to my house."
It's against the law for solicitors to shout, be noisy or a nuisance. And if you do decide to open the door, be sure to ask where they work and to see a form of identification.
In Livonia and many other cities, solicitors have to fill out an application, pay a fee and get a background check. If police approve, the city clerk issues a photo ID that must be worn in a visible place.
If they don't have one, they are breaking the law and you can call the police.
Never let a solicitor in your house, police urge. In New Baltimore, it's against the law for a solicitor to ask to enter your home. If you have a 'No Solicitor sign and someone knocks or rings anyway – that's against the law everywhere.
There is one exception – non-profits, like religious groups, don’t need to apply for a permit or ID in most cities. But they do need to follow the law. If they’re not, you can report them to police, and they will be ticketed or fined like any other solicitor breaking the law.
To apply for a solicitor license in Michigan, click here.
Click here for more information about soliciting in Michigan.
