Home

About the City

City Council

City Departments

Employment

Press Releases

Phone #s

What's New

Links

ADA Accommodations

What is a Solicitor's Permit?

A Solicitor's Permit is a two-sided, wallet-size photographic identification card, issued by the City of Simi Valley, which allows persons the opportunity to conduct business in the City as described below. (Simi Valley Municipal Code, Title 5, Chapter 12)

Who is required to obtain a Solicitor's Permit?

The following persons are among those who must apply for a Solicitor's Permit:

• A Solicitor who goes from place to place with the intent of taking orders from the sale of merchandise for future delivery;
• A canvasser who goes from place to place and leaves advertisements and/or samples of merchandise or services to be provided;
• A merchant who sets up business for a short period of time to sell the merchandise on hand;
• A peddler who goes from place to place to sell merchandise in his possession.

Who is Exempt?

Persons soliciting on behalf of any charitable, religious, or nonprofit institution or organization recognized by the State Franchise Tax  Board and the Internal Revenue Service are exempt from these requirements. However, the institution or organization is required to register with the Chief of Police and the Department of Administrative Services  (Customer Services Division), and provide proof of non-profit status.

How Do I Obtain a Solicitor's Permit?

Apply in person at City Hall, 2929 Tapo Canyon Road, Administrative Services Department, between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. A written application, Business Tax Certificate and Solicitor's Permit fee are required. If you live in the City, you may also be required to obtain a Home Occupation Permit. The minimum Business Tax Certification fee is $15.00, the Solicitor's Permit fee is $127.00, and the Home Occupation Permit fee is $34.00. Certain fee exemptions may apply and all fees are non-refundable.

When May I Expect to Receive the Solicitor's Permit?

Permits are issued or denied within 10 days after the completed application is filed with the City. Upon receipt of a complete application, the Police Department conducts a background check to verify the application information. If the background check reveals that any statement or information submitted is untrue or incomplete, approved permits shall be voided from the date of issuance.

What are My Responsibilities While Soliciting in the City?

You must obey all applicable codes and laws, show your permit to anyone asking to see it, and observe "No Soliciting" signs that may be posted. If you sell food items, you must contact the County Department of Environmental Health for additional permit/fee information.

For further information please contact the Department of Administrative Services at (805) 583-6736.