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- The program will require sidewalk vendors to obtain a business license and sidewalk vendor permit.
- The program limits vending activities in highly-trafficked areas, including the Santa Monica Pier, where all vending will be prohibited.
- The move aligns the city with a new state law, the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act, which decriminalized street vending in public spaces.
Santa Monica Mayor Gleam Davis Wednesday praised a newly approved sidewalk vending program, saying it will balance the needs of the public, business owners and vendors.
The City Council on Tuesday unanimously adopted an emergency ordinance to immediately implement a comprehensive sidewalk vending program that creates a legal pathway for vending in spaces that were previously restricted.
The move aligns the city with a new state law -- SB 946, the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act -- which decriminalized street vending in public spaces.
"Santa Monica's approach to sidewalk vending strikes an important balance that we hope will create an inclusive, safe, and successful business environment for vendors and customers, ensure public safety, and allow our public spaces to be enjoyed by all,'' Davis said in a statement released by the city.
The program will require sidewalk vendors to obtain a business license and sidewalk vendor permit. Vendors will be required to comply with county and state regulations, including an LA County Health Permit for food vendors and California Sellers Permit.
The program also limits vending activities in highly-trafficked areas, including the Santa Monica Pier, where all vending will be prohibited except for the city's existing license vendor cart program. The Third Street Promenade, Transit Mall, Santa Monica State Beach and Palisades Park will have stationary vending prohibited.
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"We're committed to working alongside vending entrepreneurs to ensure they get licensed and permitted with the city and county," Deputy City Manager and Policy Director Anuj Gupta said. "We'll also encourage and facilitate lawful vending in desirable and permissible locations that are economically attractive, such as the Colorado Esplanade."
