SOUTHSIDE– The Southside Police Department is warning residents about unpermitted door-to-door pest control salespeople following multiple reports from local neighborhoods.

According to police, residents have reported aggressive encounters with individuals claiming to represent White Knight and Palisade Pest Control.

Police said neither company currently holds an active door-to-door vendor permit from the City of Southside. Any representative conducting door-to-door sales without the required permit is violating city ordinances.

Solicitors Must Carry City-Issued Permits

All door-to-door solicitors operating in Southside must carry a valid permit issued by the city. Residents may ask representatives to show that permit before discussing services or allowing them to remain on the property.

Even with a valid permit, city rules restrict door-to-door solicitation to reasonable daytime hours. Police said vendors should not be knocking on residents’ doors at night.

Residents are not required to answer the door, speak with a salesperson, or allow anyone onto their property. Anyone who becomes aggressive or refuses to leave after being asked should be reported to law enforcement.

Residents Urged to Protect Personal Information

The Southside Police Department advises residents not to sign agreements, provide payments, or share financial information with unpermitted vendors.

Residents also should not feel pressured to open their doors or engage with anyone who makes them uncomfortable.

Police ask residents to report unpermitted solicitors so officers can attempt to locate them.

Unpermitted solicitation and other nonemergency concerns may be reported to the Southside Police Department at 256-442-2312. Anyone facing an immediate threat or emergency should call 911.