Historic Victory: Los Angeles Street Vendors Win Landmark Settlement

In a landmark decision, street vendors in Los Angeles have reached a settlement with the city, effectively repealing restrictive vending regulations and providing significant relief to thousands of vendors. This settlement, announced on Friday, marks the culmination of a lawsuit filed in December 2022 by street vendors Merlín Alvarado and Ruth Monroy, alongside three community organizations: Community Power Collective, East LA Community Corporation, and Inclusive Action for the City.

The lawsuit challenged the city’s vending restrictions, arguing that they violated SB 946, a 2018 state law that legalized sidewalk vending statewide. The settlement is expected to have a profound impact on the lives of street vendors, allowing them to operate more freely and without fear of punitive measures.

Details of the Settlement

The settlement agreement includes several key provisions aimed at supporting street vendors and ensuring compliance with state law. One of the most significant aspects of the agreement is the repeal of exclusionary vending bans across the city, particularly near swap meets, farmers’ markets, schools, and temporary events. This move is expected to open up numerous high-traffic areas for vendors, including popular tourist destinations like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hollywood Bowl, Dodger Stadium, LA Live/Crypto.com Arena, Universal Studios/City Walk, El Pueblo De Los Angeles Historical Monument, and Exposition Park.

The city has also agreed to cancel all citations issued for vending in the now-repealed no-vending zones and to provide full refunds to vendors who have paid fines. This measure is seen as a significant step towards justice for vendors who have been unfairly penalized under the previous regulations. Doug Smith, senior director of policy and legal strategy for Inclusive Action for the City, emphasized the importance of this victory, stating that it sends a strong message to other cities across California about the legality and fairness of vending regulations.

Community Response and Celebration

The announcement of the settlement was met with widespread celebration among street vendors and their advocates. Dozens of vendors and community organizers gathered on Hollywood Boulevard to mark the occasion, expressing their relief and optimism for the future. Merlín Alvarado, a street vendor and plaintiff in the lawsuit, highlighted the significance of the settlement, stating, “With this agreement, we are celebrating what was once thought impossible for street vendors. We are working-class people like anyone else, and we have rights too.”

Ana Cruz, a street vending organizer with the Community Power Collective, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of preserving the traditions and culture of street vending in Los Angeles. Cruz, who operates a hot dog cart in the Hollywood area, recalled the challenges vendors faced under the previous regulations, including being treated like criminals for simply trying to earn a living.

The settlement is expected to be approved by the City Council and Mayor Karen Bass when the council returns from recess in August. Once approved, the city will have 90 days to gather citations, identify eligible individuals for relief, and send the required notices to individual vendors. Vendors who receive notices or believe they are eligible for a refund will need to contact the Citation Processing Center to initiate the refund process.

Implications for the Future

The settlement represents a significant shift in the city’s approach to street vending, aligning it more closely with the principles of the “Safe Sidewalk Vending Act.” This state law prevents cities from enacting vending regulations based on NIMBY (Not In My Backyard) complaints or economic animus. Ritu Mahajan, an attorney representing the community groups and street vendors, emphasized that punitive and baseless vending restrictions are not only unlawful but also discriminatory and harmful to the health and well-being of communities.

In addition to repealing the no-vending zones, the city has also taken steps to make the vending permit process more accessible and affordable. In February, the City Council voted to reduce the cost of vending permits from $541 to $27.51, a move that is expected to significantly lower the barrier to entry for many vendors. Los Angeles County has also adopted a subsidy program to offset the costs associated with the permitting process, further supporting the street vending community.

The settlement is seen as a victory not only for street vendors in Los Angeles but also for vendors across California. It sets a precedent for other cities, demonstrating that arbitrary and exclusionary vending bans are illegal and can be successfully challenged. Doug Smith of Inclusive Action for the City noted that the days of redlining vendors out of communities are over, and that this settlement is a step towards creating more inclusive and equitable policies.

Our Advice on the City

For occasional travelers visiting Los Angeles, exploring the vibrant street vending scene can be a delightful experience. From delicious street food to unique handmade crafts, street vendors offer a taste of the city’s rich cultural diversity. A visit to popular spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame or Dodger Stadium can now be complemented by the opportunity to support local vendors and enjoy their offerings.

For expert travelers, consider delving deeper into the neighborhoods where street vendors have long been a staple. Areas like East LA and Hollywood are not only home to iconic landmarks but also to a thriving community of vendors who contribute to the city’s unique character. Engaging with these vendors can provide a more authentic and enriching travel experience, offering insights into the local culture and economy.

In conclusion, the recent settlement between street vendors and the city of Los Angeles marks a significant victory for the vending community and sets a positive precedent for other cities. By supporting and respecting the vital role that street vendors play in our communities, we can contribute to a more inclusive and vibrant urban landscape. Whether you’re a casual visitor or a seasoned traveler, take the time to appreciate and support the hardworking vendors who bring life and flavor to the streets of Los Angeles.