March 28, 2024

Newton city council moves to update door-to-door sales code

Newton elected leaders are moving to finalize updates to the city code to help protect citizens against fraudulent and intrusive door-to-door salespeople.

The third reading of new language requiring all solicitors, peddlers or transient merchants to apply for a permit prior to engaging in sales, regardless if they have a permanent business structure within the city will go before the city council at its regular meeting on Monday.

When presenting the changes to the council, Newton Police Chief Rob Burdess said as the weather warms, the department starts to receive complaints about peddlers. He said citizens want to know if they are licensed or unlicensed and report peddlers can be pushy selling items the citizens do not want.

Applicants for a peddler permit will be required to submit to a background check conducted by the Iowa Department of Criminal Investigations, provide a copy of government-issued identification and provide proof of bonding from the Iowa State Secretary of State. By adding these additional security steps, city administrator Matt Muckler hopes it will help ensure applicants have been well vetted and provide a safer environment for our community members.

The ordinance changes also place a time restriction on sales in Newton. Solicitors, peddlers and transient merchants will only be able to sell their goods and services from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. Sales are prohibited on Sunday.

Nonprofit groups conducting fundraisers in the right of way of city roadways will also need to talk to city hall before beginning sales. While the current ordinance does not define the parameters of approving those requests, the city will require applicants to seek approval from the city council and agree to adhere to safety guidelines outlined by city staff.

Several categories of sales will not fall under this ordinance. They include newspapers, route sales, resale or institutional use, nonprofit organizations, door-to-door sale for community improvement or benefit, students, youth sports organizations, religious organization and political candidates or organizations.

Contact Jamee A. Pierson at 641-792-3121 ext. 6534 or jpierson@newtondailynews.com