Operating a food-related business in Naperville, or going door-to-door selling food products requires understanding local regulations, especially concerning solicitation and peddling. Naperville, like many cities, has specific rules in place to ensure the safety and comfort of its residents while allowing for commerce. This guide outlines the key information food vendors and residents need to know about solicitors, peddlers, and related activities in Naperville.
In Naperville, anyone conducting door-to-door sales, including those involved in food sales, must register with the City. Upon approval, they receive a City-issued badge. This badge is crucial for identification and must be worn visibly during any soliciting or peddling activities. It’s important to note that while the City permits these activities, it does not endorse any particular business or service. Permitting simply means the individual has met the City’s requirements to operate door-to-door. If you encounter someone soliciting or peddling without a visible City badge, it is advised to contact 9-1-1 for safety and verification.
A sample of a Naperville City-issued solicitor’s permit badge. Always look for this badge to ensure vendors are registered with the City.
These regulations apply broadly to solicitors, peddlers, and even those participating in tag days within Naperville. It’s worth noting that distributing door hangers does not require a permit, offering an alternative for businesses to share information, although time restrictions are still encouraged.
Naperville sets specific time restrictions on these activities to respect community hours and days. Soliciting, peddling, and tag days are prohibited on Sundays and on State or Federal holidays. On other days, the permitted hours are:
- Soliciting/Peddling: Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM only. This applies to food peddlers as well, ensuring regulated hours for residential engagement.
- Tag Days: Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM only.
For those looking to obtain a permit to operate as a solicitor or peddler in Naperville, including food vendors planning door-to-door sales of items like specialty food products or taking orders, the City offers an online portal. Applications can be made through the City of Naperville Permitting, Plans and Licensing Portal. This online system streamlines the process, allowing applicants to apply, pay for, and manage their permits conveniently from a computer.
For residents who prefer to avoid door-to-door solicitations, including food sales, Naperville offers a “No Soliciting or Peddling” option. Residents can display a sign, specifically a 3″x 4″ “No Soliciting or Peddling Permitted on Premises” sign, which clearly indicates their preference. Alternatively, free stickers are available for pick-up at two convenient locations:
Community Services Department
Municipal Center
400 S. Eagle Street
Naperville, IL 60540
TEL: (630) 305-5300
EMAIL: [email protected]
Located on the First Floor, East Wing, and open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Naperville Police Department
1350 Aurora Ave.
Naperville, IL 60540
TEL: (630) 420-6666
For emergencies, always dial 9-1-1.
Should you encounter any issues or observe unpermitted solicitors or peddlers in your Naperville neighborhood, it’s important to report it. For non-emergency situations involving unlicensed solicitors or peddlers, please contact the Naperville Police Department’s non-emergency number at 630-420-6666. For any other questions related to permits or regulations, the Community Services Department is available at (630) 305-5300. Understanding and adhering to these regulations helps ensure a harmonious environment for both Naperville residents and food vendors operating within the city.
