In a landmark decision during its meeting on January 23, 2024, the Long Beach City Council voted unanimously, 9 to 0, to approve a new sidewalk vending ordinance aimed at fostering entrepreneurial and business development opportunities within the city.
The ordinance is designed to strike a balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring public health, safety, and ADA accessibility.
Scheduled to go into effect on February 23, 2024, the ordinance aligns with California’s Safe Sidewalk Vending Act (SB 946), which decriminalized sidewalk vending across the state.
Long Beach’s ordinance, developed after extensive outreach following the direction of the City Council, offers a clear framework for individuals interested in engaging in sidewalk vending, whether through food carts or other merchandise.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the importance of expanding business opportunities while prioritizing public health and safety.
“As we grow Long Beach, it’s imperative to find ways to expand business opportunities in the city. This new ordinance will open a new avenue of opportunities for small businesses while prioritizing public health, accessibility, and safety,” said Mayor Richardson.