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. In addition, “No Solicitors Invited” cards to display are available at the police department front desk or at the receptionist desk in the Municipal Building.
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. “No Solicitors Invited” cards to display on your door are available at the police department front desk or the lobby in the Municipal Building.
- 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 .