Franklin, Tennessee: door-to-door solicitor permit

• The answer: Yes — a peddler/solicitor permit, one per rep. It is unlawful for a peddler or solicitor to work in the city without one, a permit is issued to an individual only, and nobody else may use it (9-202(1)). A solicitor is anyone going dwelling to dwelling taking orders for goods for future delivery; a peddler sells and delivers goods or services on the spot (9-201). Sellers responding to a prior invitation from the resident are exempt (9-202(2)).
• Where it comes from: A sworn written application filed with the city recorder for each rep; the revenue and licensing manager refers it to the chief of police for investigation and issues the permit if the report is satisfactory (9-203, 9-204).
• Fee: Permit fee $50.00, plus a surety bond of $1,000.00, per the code's comprehensive fee schedule (Appendix A, Chapter 9, "Peddlers, Solicitors, Etc."). The application fee is nonrefundable and covers the cost of investigating the application (9-203(1)(j)); the bond is filed with the city recorder (9-206).
• Hours you may knock: 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. (8:00 P.M. during daylight saving time), Monday through Saturday only (9-214(1)). The code sets no Sunday hours.
• What the rep carries: The permit, shown for inspection at all times and whenever a police officer or citizen asks; failing to show it is a violation (9-209).
• What takes the time: The police investigation: the chief reports back within ten business days of a complete application (9-204(1)). The application needs two recent photographs about two inches square, two local property-owner references or other evidence of good reputation, any criminal convictions, employer credentials, and the last three cities where the rep worked (9-203(1)). The bond must be filed before the permit issues (9-204(2)).
• Code: Franklin Municipal Code, Title 9, Chapter 2 — Peddlers, Solicitors, Etc. (9-201 to 9-214); fees in Appendix A — Comprehensive Fees and Penalties. Municode shows the code codified through Ordinance No. 2025-15, adopted February 24, 2025.
• Worth knowing: A permit expires one year from issuance, or sooner when the holder's privilege license expires (9-213). Failing to leave promptly when asked, or knocking where a posted sign says solicitors are not welcome, is a trespass (9-214(2)). A revoked permit bars a new application for six months (9-212).
• Read it yourself: Franklin Municipal Code, Title 9, Chapter 2 — Peddlers, Solicitors, Etc. · Franklin Municipal Code, Appendix A — Comprehensive Fees and Penalties · Franklin Municipal Code (currency statement) · checked 21 September 2026

Ask the clerk, and write the answer down:

• Whether the $1,000.00 surety bond is required per rep or can be one bond for the company
• Whether the company needs a Franklin privilege (business) license before reps can apply
• Whether applications are taken online, by mail or only in person at Billing and Licensing

Clerk’s name ______________ Direct line ______________ Date called ______________