Distributing flyers can raise public awareness, but should be conducted in an appropriate manner.
Fliers are a great way to spread information about an organization or event. However, they can be a nuisance to those who do not wish to receive fliers or for those whose job it is to clean up any trash created from fliers being thrown out on the streets. Flier rules and regulations vary from business to business and from state to state. To be sure you are in compliance with these rules, it is important to do your research.
Owner Permission
Distribute fliers in businesses only with the owner's approval. While many companies such as cafes, restaurants or retail establishments don't mind having fliers hanging in their store windows or on entrance tables, it is imperative that you ask permission first. Do not distribute fliers to homes or storefronts that indicate "no soliciting." This will often be seen in deed-restricted communities and office parks. Fliers such as door hangers or mail inserts cannot be distributed in areas where a "no soliciting" sign is hanging..
Local Laws
Legal rights associated with flier distribution can vary by location. Much information about flier distribution laws in your city may be found online or at your local library. Some cities might consider it trespassing if you place fliers on cars in parking lots on private property. Generally, distributing fliers is not illegal, but the location and manner you do so may be dependent on what the property owner approves. Littering laws may also affect how and where you may distribute fliers.
Keep it Friendly and Appropriate
Target your chosen demographic, and distribute fliers in public locations only to willing receivers. Do not force people to accept the fliers because they might be likely to throw them on the ground. Depending on litter laws in your location, this could result in a hefty fine for you. It is your constitutional right to print fliers and distribute them, as long as you are not on private property or being harmful in some other manner. Also, remember to keep the content contained on the fliers appropriate for all ages. This is especially important if the material will be seen in public locations by small children. The material can be a bit less age appropriate only if it is distributed in places where children will not be likely to observe them.
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