Solicitors and peddlers in League City will likely have tighter restrictions soon, including having to pass an online training course before being granted a permit to solicit.

The big picture

On July 25, League City City Council updated the city’s ordinance related to soliciting. The ordinance will require a second vote for final approval.

The following changes to the ordinance are proposed:

• Solicitors cannot solicit after sunset or 7 p.m.—whichever is earlier.
• The city’s communications department will administer online training to interested solicitors, who must pass the training to be granted a permit to solicit in the city.
• Permit fees will be $50 for solicitors whose primary residence is within League City and $100 for those whose primary residence is outside the city.
• Interested solicitors must undergo and pass a criminal history check.

What they’re saying

Council Member Sean Saunders said something had to be done to restrict solicitors, some of whom have reportedly gotten aggressive with residents. One solicitor had their permit revoked only for them to change their business name and reapply and acquire another permit, he said.

“These companies have gotten so out of hand it’s not even funny,” Saunders said.

Council members said the updated ordinance wouldn’t be effective if residents don’t call the police when a solicitor violates the ordinance.

“The only way this works is if you pick up the phone and call when a solicitor comes that’s breaking the rules,” Council Member John Bowen said.

Next steps

The ordinance will require a second and final reading and vote to go into effect. City Council will likely do the second reading at its Aug. 8 meeting.