06/11/2026
Visited at home by a salesperson or solicitor? Here’s what you need to know!
We’ve recently received a number of excellent questions regarding the regulations for direct sellers and solicitors in the Village. We're glad you asked, and we want to share the answers here for the community’s benefit.
Q: How do I know who I’m talking to or if their business or organization is legitimate?
A: Per regulation, with the exception of a brief initial greeting, direct sellers and solicitors are prohibited from saying anything else to you until they have given you their name, the name of the company or organization they represent (if applicable), what they do or sell, and their purpose for contacting you. They must display a photo ID card, issued by their business or organization, at all times. They must also carry a copy of the permit or license issued to them by the village clerk authorizing them to sell or solicit. You have a right to ask to see and inspect their permit or license at any time during an interaction, and they are required to produce said document upon your request.
Q: Are direct sellers or solicitors allowed to drop by my house at all hours?
A: No! Direct sellers and solicitors are prohibited from coming to your door before 9 a.m. or after 9 p.m., unless you’ve pre-arranged an appointment with them. They’re also prohibited from calling on you on legal holidays, unless by appointment.
Q: Can they just ignore my “No Solicitors” sign?
A: No! Regardless of the time of day, direct sellers and solicitors are prohibited from knocking or ringing your bell if you are clearly displaying a “No Solicitors” sign, “No Peddlers” sign, or any other sign conveying words of similar meaning.
Q: I answered the door, and now they won’t leave. What should I do?
A: Direct sellers and solicitors are often trained to be persistent, even when they hear, “No, thank you,” or “I’m not interested.” The recommended course of action is to use polite, but direct, language—say, “I’d like you to leave my property now,” or simply, “Please leave.” Direct sellers and solicitors are not allowed to remain on any premises after being asked to leave by the owner or occupant.
Q: A direct seller or solicitor has violated one (or more) of the above rules. What should I do?
A: If a direct seller or solicitor has violated any of the above rules, please note their name and their business or organization’s name and report them to the McFarland Police Department by calling 608-838-3151. This may result in a temporary suspension of their license or permit, which could lead to a permanent revocation.
