Automated sales messages that annoyed recipients sometimes call "robocalls" will be banned beginning Sept. 1.

The new rule was announced Thursday by the Federal trade Commission. It requires sellers and telemarketers to get written permission from potential customers before contacting them with prerecorded telephone messages. Violators could face penalties of up to $16,000 for each call.

The new rule forbids the use of robocalls even if the caller has previously done business with the person called.

There are a number of exceptions to the rule. Permitted are calls that are strictly informational: a canceled flight, a delay in a school opening, or a notice as to when an order will be delivered. Others allowed to use automated messages include bill collectors, politicians, banks, telephone carriers and most charitable organizations.