Street Vendors in NoDa now need a permit to sell goods

CHARLOTTE, N.C – NoDa neighborhood street vendors will now have to register to sell items on the street. William Fulton owns the Jugo Bar on North Davidson street. He supports a plan to require vendors to register with the city for an assigned spot.

“The way it’s set up now that it’s they’re even competing against who can get what space, you know, even on the street space,” Fulton said.

Right now, vendors are allowed to set up anywhere on the street. Some have blocked fire stations and bus stops. Close to 700 people have a signed a change.org petition against a permitting system.

“I understand the city’s need for order and safety, but raising permanent fees and expanding restricted zones, especially in places like North Davidson, where foot traffic is vital, will only push more people into unsafe, committed places, not because they want to break rules, but because they have no other choice,” Irena Robinson, NoDa Street Vendor said.

The new plan will designate spots where vendors can set up along Davidson and surrounding streets for an annual fee of less than $100.00.

“I don’t think it is too much to ask that we regulate this so that people who are selling food and beverages are abiding by basic health and safety standards,” Victoria Watlington, representing City Council at Large said.

The updated plan also outlines fines for non-compliant vendors up to $500.00.

“We have also put some concessions in there where our staff has taken a step further to help you identify other locations where you can potentially be instead of in front of someone else business,” Lawana Mayfield, representing City Council at Large said.

The majority of city council voted in favor of the pilot program to regulate street vendors.

“It still gives the creators, the artists, the vendors, opportunity to be in the community, but also give a chance for the city to know who’s actually there,” William Fulton said.

City council plans to start the pilot program in July. The team will revisit the program in six months to see if it’s working effectively. Council asked vendors to stay engaged to add input and feedback.