Do I need a solicitation permit

I am a small service business wanting to door knock for myself so i figured i would get my permit since my buddy told me i should. I went to the local county clerk to fill out an application. They had no clue how to do it. Nobody working had done one before and I heard one say we haven’t done one of these in like 5 years. Does this not mean that nobody is getting them? I was pretty sure the only way to get this permit is at the county clerk and if nobody is getting them how is there so many solicitors, they must be going with out it I feel. But my main issue is that it’s going to cost $200 and I’m going to drive an hour there and go through the process. I just don’t want to waste my time or money. But if they aren’t enforcing the laws do I really need it?
Location: Destin/Panama City Florida