Friendswood could shrink the hours for when door-to-door sales are allowed

Door-to-door salesmen doing business in Friendswood may have to cease operations after 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever comes first.

The details

Friendswood City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance July 7 aimed at changing the hours of operation within which solicitors can do business in Friendswood to Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Previously, solicitors could do business until 9 p.m., according to city documents.

Violators could be fined up to $500 per offense, with each act and each day of violation treated as a separate offense, according to city documents.

Why it matters

The move follows concerns for safety risks at night, increased potential for noise disturbances and crimes and alignment with neighboring cities. League City and Pearland allow for solicitation during hours similar to the proposed changes in Friendswood, according to city documents.

Looking ahead

City Council is set to consider the second reading at an Aug. 4 meeting, according to city documents. If approved, the ordinance will go into effect 10 days after its publication in the official newspaper.