West Penn Township is nearing authorization of a revised peddling ordinance.

On a 2-1 vote, supervisors on Monday adopted the peddling/soliciting resolution. Board Chairman Tony Prudenti was opposed.

The amplified ordinance will require peddlers to apply for a license if they intend to go door-to-door selling goods or services.

If the ordinance is approved, the applications will be available from the township municipal building. Once complete, they’ll be filed with the township police department, which will conduct background checks on the applicants.

Township solicitor Paul Datte said at last month’s workshop that it’s to prevent unwanted business, and also helps officials keep a check on who’s visiting the township.

Datte said at that time he hoped it would stop scammers, including people who prey on the elderly.

The ordinance hasn’t been revised since 1993.

He noted at that time that residents can also place a sign on their properties, saying that no peddlers or solicitors are welcome.

Prudenti said at the workshop he is against peddling altogether, but Datte said the township cannot outlaw it.