The City of Southgate requires individuals conducting certain peddling and soliciting activities within the City to obtain an identification card. Canvassers may request an identification card but are not required to obtain one.

Peddler, Solicitor & Canvasser Application


To apply, complete the application and submit it in person to the City Clerk's Office during regular business hours. The application must include information about the applicant and each person requesting an identification card.  Before submitting your application, please have your identification and required business documentation ready.

What You Will Need

A peddler applicant must provide:

  • Completed Peddler, Solicitor & Canvasser Application
  • Copy of the principal's Michigan sales tax license
  • Photocopy of the applicant's driver's license (front and back), state identification card, passport, or other government-issued identification

Fees

  • $30.00 Background Check Fee
  • $5.00 per day to solicit

Please allow 3–4 business days for the background check to be completed. 

Identification Cards

Each person conducting peddling or soliciting activities must have an identification card. The identification card must be worn on the individual's outer clothing and be reasonably visible to people who are approached. It may not be issued for more than six months.

Important Rules

Peddlers, solicitors, and canvassers must observe the City's requirements, including restrictions concerning properties displaying “No Soliciting” signs.  They may not enter posted property unless expressly invited by the resident or occupant.

Door-to-door activity is permitted only during specified hours:

  • 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. during Eastern Standard Time
  • 9:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. during Eastern Daylight Time

Peddlers, solicitors, and canvassers may not obstruct streets, alleys, sidewalks, or driveways, and additional restrictions apply to vehicles and transactions in public areas.

City Ordinance

For complete information regarding the City's regulations for peddlers, solicitors and canvassers, please review Chapter 850 – Peddlers of the Southgate Municipal Code.