Peddling ban takes effect today on the Las Vegas Strip
Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- You will probably see a lot fewer peddlers on the Las Vegas Strip beginning today.
A new county ordinance is taking effect. It gives police the power to enforce a law that bans peddlers from doing business on the Strip.
It is already illegal to sell things like bottle water, alcohol, tickets or photos on the Strip's sidewalks.
But now police will be stepping in to enforce that law.
The County Commission passed the ordinance last week.
The reason for the ordinance is to keep the masses of people who walk on the Strip moving instead of stopping or congregating around street performers, handbillers or people selling items on the sidewalks.
Many of the peddlers have complained about harassment and selective enforcement by the police, which is the reason the county wanted to clarify rules on a public right of way.
No one can charge a "fee" for any product, not even for photos with a costumed character.
But, they can ask for a donation or engage in free speech -- even if it is a handbill.
The new ordinance does not effect handbillers who distribute fliers for adult entertainment or people who earn tips by dressing in costume and posing for photos.
But, a six month pedestrian traffic study could change that if the county finds that these people are holding up the flow of pedestrian traffic.
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