Prince George's County passes new street vending rules and pilot program

Prince George's County Council has passed two bills aimed at updating street vending regulations and creating a pilot program for designated vending areas, WTOP reported. The legislation responds to differing community views, with some residents seeing vendors as a nuisance and others viewing vending as a livelihood opportunity.

One bill requires street vendors to comply with county permitting requirements and gives vendors one year to meet these rules. The bill passed with a 7-4 vote and still needs approval from the county executive before it takes effect, WTOP noted. Vending on private property will remain legal, and some existing exceptions are expected to limit the impact on many vendors.

The second bill establishes a pilot program directing county officials to create designated areas for regulated street vending. It also aims to streamline the permitting process and includes provisions for lowering fines, issuing warnings for first offenses, and escalating penalties for repeat violations, according to FOX 5 DC.

Under the enforcement bill, goods will be removed immediately if vendors fail to comply. Penalties increase with each offense, starting with a warning and reaching up to $3,000 fines for multiple violations, FOX 5 DC reported. Both bills now await review by the county executive.

The council heard significant public comment during the debate, including from immigrant community members who urged support for vendors trying to make a living, as well as residents concerned about blocked sidewalks and street parking, WTOP said.