McMinnville reports uptick in solicitation at residents’ homes
The city of McMinnville reported that it is seeing an uptick in “solicitors and peddlers” trying to sell products to city residents at their homes.
What This Story Is About
- McMinnville is reporting an increase in solicitors in the area.
Why It Matters
- The city said there have been reports from McMinnville residents about pushy sales tactics.
What Happens Next
- City leaders are discussing options to “streamline and strengthen” its permitting and enforcement process, including possibly implementing a restriction on door-knocking hours.
MCMINNVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - The city of McMinnville reported that it is seeing an uptick in “solicitors and peddlers” trying to sell products to city residents at their homes.
The city said that the solicitors are trying to sell various products and services, including home security systems.
“We have received several reports from residents regarding pushy sales tactics that are making some feel uncomfortable,” the city said.
Due to the increase in the presence of these solicitors, the city said it wants residents to know their rights and how to protect themselves from scammers.
“Per McMinnville City Code (Section 9-208), every individual solicitor must carry their own City-issued permit and is legally required to exhibit it upon the request of any citizen or police officer,” the city said.
The city shared these tips to “handle unwanted door-knockers”:
- Ask to see their permit: Each person knocking on your door must have their own individual permit. Group permits do not exist. If they are working in a team of 10, all 10 must have their own unique permit.
- Tell them to leave: If a solicitor cannot produce a valid City of McMinnville permit, you have every right to ask them to leave your property immediately.
- Post a sign: You can place a “No Solicitation” or “No Trespassing” sign on your door or in your yard. Solicitors are legally required to obey these posted signs.
- Call for assistance: If an unpermitted solicitor refuses to leave, remains aggressive or makes you feel unsafe, please ask them to leave and call 911 immediately so law enforcement can respond and enforce our city ordinances.
The city said leaders met Thursday to discuss options to “streamline and strengthen” its permitting and enforcement process. This discussion also included the possibility of restricting door-knocking hours.
“In the meantime, asking to see that permit is your quickest tool to stop unpermitted solicitations,” the city said.
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