Homer Police Reminding Residents Door-to-Door Solicitors Require Permits Issued by Village – Asked to Stay Vigilant For Scammers

The Village of Homer Police Department is reminding residents within the village that door-to-door salespersons are required to have a permit with them to be allowed to solicit door-to-door. The reminder comes after Homer Police recently received a call of a person going to a residence unsolicited allegedly from a cable company. HPD says other agencies have similar complaints.

Officers were unable to locate the individual to confirm they were indeed from a cable company, but are reminding residents that peddler permits are required for all door-to-door sales within the village; a majority of neighboring communities also have the same permit requirements. HPD added signs are posted at nearly every major roadway that enters the Village of Homer indicating this permit is required.

“There are some legitimate salespeople who are aware permits are required and get one, there are some who are aware but choose to ignore the law and not to get one. There are others who claim they are a salesperson but this is actually a ruse or a ploy to gain entry inside your home with the intention to steal from you or obtain information about you such as your pedigree information, to steal your identity.” Homer Police told X101 News.

With the nicer weather here, scammers are likely to pose as contractors and then inform you of your driveway, roof, siding, or another part of your property that requires work done. A common line these scammers may use is “I was doing some work at your neighbors and have extra material, and I could see your driveway needs repair.”

Any type of solicitation, including those who claimed they were doing work just down the street are required to have a peddler permit. If someone arrives at your door, do not let them in, and ask to see their permit.

If they fail to show a valid permit that is issued by the Village of Homer, or have doubt on its authenticity, call Homer Police at (607)749-2022. Also be able to provide a description of the individual, their vehicle (color, make/model, SUV/car/truck), a license plate number, and direction of travel.