By [email protected] Updated on Wednesday, March 29 2017 02:00pm

It's that time of year when door-to-door sales will pick up. Here are some tips for residents to remember when faced with door to door sales people.

First, you should remember, even if you don't like sales people, they are just doing their job. Not every unknown person that knocks at your door is a criminal or has bad intentions. You can always say no and ask them to leave. You could also just not answer the door. A doorbell camera is a great way to know who's at your door before answering, and even talk to them if you want.

Next, in many communities in Siouxland local code requires sales people to have permits, issued by the city they are peddling in. You should always ask them to see their permit. If they don't have one or don't provide it, ask them to leave. They should also always immediately identify themselves, their company and the purpose of their visit.

Once you've verified who they are and what they want, you can ask them to leave if you don't want to hear their pitch. When a visitor to your property refuses to leave when asked, they can be charged with trespassing and/or be in violation of their permit to sell door to door.