Fort Mill’s Solicitation Ordinance Takes Effect Nov. 1 to Boost Privacy and Safety

The Town of Fort Mill’s new solicitation ordinance, which went into effect on Nov. 1, 2025, is designed to promote privacy, safety and transparency for those who live and work in Town. It is designed to:

• Protect residents from unwanted or unsafe visits.
• Prevent fraud and other unwanted or criminal activities.
• Clarify procedures for anyone wishing to solicit in the Town.
• Respect constitutional rights by allowing both commercial and non-commercial solicitation within reasonable limits.

See below for a review of the Town’s new ordinance and how it impacts both solicitors and residents.

For Individuals Who Wish to Solicit

Who Needs a Permit

• Anyone conducting commercial solicitation — meaning selling goods, services, or requesting donations for business purposes — must first obtain a Door-to-Door Solicitation Permit from the Town.
• Non-commercial solicitation (like religious, charitable, political, or nonprofit causes) does not require a permit, but must still follow the same general rules about respectful behavior and timing.

Permit Process

Applicants must:

• Complete an official Town application form.
• Provide identification, background checks, business details, and proof of a valid Fort Mill business license.
• Pay a $100 permit fee (as of fiscal year 2025–26).
• List all individuals who will be soliciting under the permit.

The Town must issue or deny the permit within five business days of receiving a complete application.

Restrictions on Soliciting

• Allowed only between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.
• Solicitors must leave immediately if asked.
• No more than two solicitors may visit a home at the same time.
• Solicitors must wear and display their permit visibly.
• They must introduce themselves and state their purpose right away.

Reasons for Denial or Revocation

A permit may be denied or revoked if the applicant:

• Lies on the application.
• Employs someone with a felony, fraud, or violent crime conviction.
• Fails to follow the ordinance or Town business license rules.
• Engages in unsafe, misleading, or illegal practices.

Penalties

Violating the ordinance can result in:

• A fine of up to $750 (plus court costs).
• Possible revocation of the solicitation permit.

For Town Residents

Your Right to Say No

Residents can refuse any solicitation by:

• Posting a “No Solicitors” or “No Commercial Solicitors” sign at or near their front door or on a mailbox:
  • “No Solicitors” stops all types (commercial, nonprofit, political, religious).
  • “No Commercial Solicitors” stops only for-profit solicitations.
• Asking solicitors to leave — and they must comply immediately.

Protection from Unwanted or Unsafe Activity

• The Town screens commercial solicitors through background checks.
• Permitted solicitors must carry identification and proof of authorization.
• Solicitation after 7:00 p.m., at posted “No Solicitation” homes, or by unpermitted individuals can be reported to Town authorities or law enforcement.

Respecting Lawful Non-Commercial Activity

Non-commercial solicitors — such as local candidates, charities, or religious organizations — do not need permits, but they must still follow:

• The same restricted hours.
• “No Solicitation” signs.
• Requests to leave.

This ensures residents’ rights are respected while still allowing free expression and community outreach.