A Big Win For Street Vendors
L.A. street food vendors scored a big win for their industry and for those who love their food. A new ordinance passed by the Los Angeles City Council removes restrictions for vending zones throughout the city. Prior to the ordinance, which was introduced by Councilmen Paul Krekorian and Hugo Soto-Martinez in October 2023, certain sections of the city, such as Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood Bowl were off limits to all street vendors. Selling in these restricted zones incurred heavy fines ranging from $100 to $500 per ticket.
A Long Road
The challenge for vendors has been a long one. Even after former Governor Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 946 (SB 946) in 2018 which legalized street vending throughout California, local regulations discouraged street vending business. Additionally, stiff fines followed the creation of seven restricted zones within Los Angeles.
Changes In Attitude
An ongoing lawsuit started by street vendors and supportive organizations in 2022 claims that these local regulations were in violation of the original Senate Bill 946 and that all citations against street vendors in these restricted areas should be retracted. The current ordinance reflects changing attitudes toward street vending and offers vendors greater access to customers across the city. You can read more about the ordinance here.
Support Your Local Street Food Vendors
This new change is diversifying the face of the food scene in Los Angeles and making street food more accessible to us all. Go celebrate today by grabbing your favorite taco, elote, or bacon-wrapped hotdog.