City To Set New Restrictions On Sidewalk Vending In RSM

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — The City of Rancho Santa Margarita is imposing new restrictions on the timing and locations of sidewalk vendors, along with enforcing permit regulations.

The new regulations will allow roaming street vendors to operate from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily in residential areas. In non-residential areas, all vendors — including stationary — will be able to sell until 10 p.m. or later if other businesses on that street are allowed to remain open past 10 p.m.

Stationary vendors are forbidden from selling in residential areas, and all types would need appropriate permits to operate.

According to the city, vendors who wish to obtain a sidewalk permit must submit a written application to the county that includes their proposed hours of operation, items that will be sold and the exact location where they will sell.

In addition, applicants must provide proof of necessary permits from the Orange County Health Care Agency for food sales, a California seller's permit number, an indemnification agreement and proof of insurance coverage. Applicants must also undergo criminal background checks for both the applicant and employees and pay the required fee.

If approved, vendors will have to follow a set of rules and regulations in order to operate in Rancho Santa Margarita. The rules include prohibitions on flashing lights, sound-amplifying devices, open flames and sales of alcohol, marijuana, adult material and more.

Rancho Santa Margarita's city council will give the ordinance a second reading during its Feb. 28 meeting before the new rules take effect.