Some residents took to social media and complained about unwanted solicitors coming to their doors over the last couple of weeks.
While the Park Forest Police Department confirmed no recent upticks in solicitation complaints, Chief Brian Rzyski says there are a few things residents can do if they don't want to be bothered.
"If an unwanted solicitor comes to your door, call the police," Rzyski said. "All solicitors are required to register with the Village, and they are required to have the approved license on their person."
Rzyski said solicitors who fail to register with the Village will receive a ticket. He said since May, have responded to 12 solicitor complaints. The Park Forest Police Department responded to nine last year, and 14 in 202. He noted data shows these numbers are typical.
Additionally, Rzyski said solicitation is prohibited in areas marked "no solicitation." He added no solicitor shall enter upon any premises posted "no commercial solicitation permitted." This means residents can add that signage to their residences, and solicitors are required to obey it.
Residents should also look for proper identification. All solicitors shall wear the Village-issued identification badge visible at all times while soliciting. And if a resident asks a solicitor to leave, they should do so immediately. Lastly, soliciting isn't allowed after the sun sets.
The Park Forest Police Department conducts a background check on all applicants interested in doing door-to-door solicitation in the Village.
If you come in contact with a solicitor in violation of Village ordinance, or wish to ensure that a solicitor is in fact in compliance with Village ordinance, call the Park Forest Police Department’s non-emergency