Los Angeles is moving forward a plan that would decriminalize street vending. Currently road-side food stands aren’t allowed to operate in the city despite their prolific presence across Los Angeles. A City Council committee is advancing a proposal that would let street vendors apply for permits to legally operate their business. This would be enforced through a fine and property confiscation system, EGP news reports.
The fight for legalized street vending has been going on for years. Advocates say it provides people with job opportunity, it is part of LA’s culture, and the permitting process could raise money for the city. Opponents of the movement say it is unfair towards brick-and-mortar business owners because food stand operators wouldn’t be required to pay property taxes. KPCC reports that concerns still exist on how the permit process would be properly enforced.
A “framework” for how sellers will operate goes before City Council in January. That includes rules that specify two vendors per block and allows neighborhoods to tighten the rules if necessary, KPCC writes. If the Council approves then city staff would draft an ordinance that would write the details on how vendors could operate on the streets of LA.
