Solicitor tips from the Menlo Park Police Department

Published on July 13, 2023

We have noticed an increase in door-to-door solicitors in Menlo Park. In an effort to help combat these unwanted interactions, here are some tips you can use to keep them at bay while keeping yourself safe:

• Do not open the door to strangers.
• If solicitors try to approach you while you are outdoors, say "No, thank you," go inside your home, close and lock your door.
• Do not engage, this will only entice them to continue the conversation.
• Follow theft prevention safety by never giving them your credit card information or showing them your personal documents or bills.
• Consider adding a “No Solicitors” sign to deter them from knocking on your door.

If the individual is extremely persistent and hard to get rid of, residents may call the Menlo Park non-emergency line at 650-330-6300 to report any unwanted parties at their residence. If they are aggressive or threatening, please call 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.

For more specifics on peddlers and solicitors, please refer to the Menlo Park Municipal Code.