Soliciting in St. Charles - Information for Residents
The City of St. Charles regulates both charitable and commercial soliciting to ensure public safety, protect residents’ privacy, and uphold transparency. Below is a summary of the key rules and procedures.
Types of Solicitation
Charitable Solicitation
Requests for donations or selling items where proceeds go to a charitable purpose (e.g., religious, nonprofit, or philanthropic organizations).
Commercial Solicitation
Sales or offers of goods, services, or subscriptions for profit.
Registration Requirements
Charitable Solicitors
- Organization and solicitor names and addresses
- Dates, times, and locations of solicitation
- Proof of registration or exemption from the Illinois Attorney General
Commercial Solicitors
- Must register and be approved by the City before soliciting.
- Must submit:
- Application with personal and business info
- Photo ID and headshot
- Background check via fingerprinting
- $50 registration fee per applicant
- Permits are valid for 90 days
- Felons and registered sex offenders are prohibited from soliciting
Resident Rights and Protections
- “No Solicitors” signs may be posted on any property. These must be respected.
- Solicitors must leave immediately if asked or if a “No Solicitors” sign is posted.
- Only 2 solicitors may approach a home at one time.
- Solicitors must use the main walkway and entrance only.
- Solicitors must have their City Of St. Charles issued ID viewable for residents to see.
Time & Location Limits
- Soliciting is only allowed between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
- No commercial solicitation is allowed on Sundays or holidays
- No soliciting within 500 feet of schools
Special Rules for Charitable Groups
- Must provide financial statements on request
- May solicit on highways only with a city-issued permit
- Permits only issued to groups with a St. Charles address or that serve local residents
Penalties for Violations
- $100 fine for the first violation
- Up to $500 fines for repeat offenses
- Permits may be revoked for violations
For more information or to apply to solicit in St. Charles, please contact the St. Charles Police Department at (630) 377-4435 .