EAST GRANBY, CT — Door-to-door salespeople in East Granby will have to register with the town, avoid homes on a "Do Not Knock" list and finish soliciting by 7 p.m. under a revised town ordinance.
The rules apply to people selling goods, services, home improvements, subscriptions and other commercial products from door to door. Peddlers carrying items for immediate sale or delivery are also covered.
Before visiting homes, commercial solicitors must register with the First Selectman's Office or another municipal office designated by the town.
Applicants must provide their name, permanent address, telephone number, government-issued photo identification and information about the company or organization they represent. They must also disclose what they plan to sell, the dates and hours they intend to work and information about any vehicle they will use.
The town may conduct what the ordinance describes as a reasonable background review. Approved applicants will receive a permit or identification badge that must be carried and displayed upon request.
East Granby will offer annual permits and temporary permits lasting up to 30 days. The Board of Selectmen will establish the fees.
Commercial door-to-door activity will be prohibited before 9 a.m., after 7 p.m. and on federal holidays unless a resident has invited the solicitor to visit at another time.
The ordinance also allows the town to maintain a voluntary "Do Not Knock Registry." Commercial solicitors will be barred from contacting homes on that list.
Residents will not need to join the registry to turn solicitors away. The ordinance prohibits anyone from entering or remaining on property displaying a "No Soliciting" or "No Trespassing" sign or continuing a sales pitch after a resident declines.
Solicitors also may not use threats or deception, falsely claim an affiliation, block streets or driveways or create excessive noise.
Political canvassers, religious groups, registered nonprofit organizations, school youth fundraisers, government workers and authorized utility representatives are exempt from the commercial registration requirements. The "Do Not Knock Registry" also will not apply to political, religious or other constitutionally protected canvassing.
A first violation may bring a written warning. A second offense carries a fine of up to $100, while subsequent violations may result in fines of up to $250. Each residence involved may be treated as a separate offense.
Police officers, constables and authorized town officials may enforce the ordinance. Permits also may be revoked for violations.
The ordinance states that it will take effect 15 days after its adoption.
For more Northern Connecticut news, follow Patch editor Jay Kenney.
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