(A) The intent of this chapter is to establish regulations for sidewalk vendors that complies with Senate Bill 946 (Chapter 459, Statutes 2018). The provisions of this chapter allow the city to encourage small business activities by removing total prohibitions on portable food and merchandise stands and certain forms of solicitation while still permitting regulation and enforcement of unpermitted sidewalk vending activities to protect the public's health, safety and welfare.
(B) The City Council hereby finds that to promote the public's health, safety and welfare, restrictions on sidewalk vending are necessary to:
(1) Ensure no unreasonable interference with the flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic including ingress into, or egress from, any residence, public building, or place of business, or from the street to the sidewalk, by persons exiting or entering parked or standing vehicles;
(2) Provide reasonable access for the use and maintenance of sidewalks, pathways, poles, posts, traffic signs or signals, hydrants, firefighting apparatus, mailboxes, as well as access to locations used for public transportation services; and
(3) Reduce exposure to the city for personal injury or property damage claims and litigation.
(C) The City Council hereby finds that the unique characteristics of the city require certain restrictions on sidewalk vending as follows:
(1) Parks. The city's parks provide recreational opportunities and restrictions on sidewalk vending are necessary to protect the natural resources, recreational opportunities, as well as scenic and natural character of these parks, and the health, safety and welfare of those persons engaged in active sports activities as well as spectators of sporting activities.
(2) Sidewalks. Many of the sidewalks and pathways in the city are under seven feet wide and sidewalk vending in these areas would unreasonably interfere with the flow of pedestrians and disrupt access for persons with disabilities.
(Ord. 2018-263, passed 12-19-2018)