It is unlawful for any person, by himself or his agents or servants, to distribute, cast, throw or place or cause to be distributed, thrown or cast or placed in, upon or along any of the streets, alleys or other public places in the city, or upon the porches or yards of private residences therein or within any dwelling or building in the city, any samples of merchandise or medicinal preparations for the purpose or with the intent of advertising or making known in a general or promiscuous manner any business, occupation, proposition, medical treatment, medicine or any other articles whatsoever. (1964 Code § 494)