Las Vegas has recently enacted a new ordinance that prohibits sidewalk vendors from selling their goods within 1,500 feet of resort hotels, sports facilities and convention centers. The ban aims to address concerns about congestion, public safety and the overall visitor experience in popular areas of the city.
The Clark County Commission unanimously approved the sidewalk vending ban recently in response to growing concerns about overcrowding and pedestrian safety near Las Vegas resorts.
Commissioner Marilyn Kirkpatrick expressed her support for the ban, highlighting the need to enforce it near the popular Welcome To Fabulous Las Vegas sign. The ban aims to ensure that sidewalks remain accessible to pedestrians and minimize congestion, which can create safety risks and impede emergency response efforts.
The ban on sidewalk vending near Las Vegas resorts is a response to the increasing popularity of street food vendors and the challenges they pose in crowded areas. Prior to the enactment of Senate Bill 92, there was no established licensing pathway for sidewalk vendors. The ban is a proactive measure to regulate and protect street food vendors while maintaining the safety and convenience of tourists and residents.
According to Virginia Valentine, a representative of the Nevada Resort Association, the ban addresses the congestion issues on sidewalks not designed for commercial activity. It also aims to prevent potential opportunities for crime and alleviate challenges faced by individuals with limited mobility.
The sidewalk vending ban will undoubtedly have an impact on the livelihoods of street vendors who rely on foot traffic near Las Vegas resorts. With the ban in place, vendors will need to identify alternative locations to conduct their businesses. This shift may require them to explore licensing options and consider designated areas where sidewalk vending is permitted.
For tourists, the ban may result in a change in the street atmosphere near popular attractions. The reduced presence of sidewalk vendors in certain areas may affect the overall ambiance and diversity of offerings. However, the ban aims to strike a balance between maintaining a vibrant street culture and ensuring public safety and convenience.
The sidewalk vending ban is set to go into effect on October 17, 2023. However, it is important to note that this is only the first of two ordinances being considered by the commission. The second ordinance, expected to be introduced in January 2024, will provide specific guidelines and regulations for sidewalk vending operations.
The second ordinance will address key aspects such as licensing fees, designated zones for sidewalk vending in neighborhoods and commercial areas, and the establishment of rules for conducting business. Public feedback and engagement will be crucial in shaping the final legislation and ensuring the interests of both vendors and the community are adequately represented.
To gather input from the public, two town hall meetings are scheduled in October.
