Police warn peddlers on the Las Vegas Strip as new ordinance takes effect
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Peddling on a public right of way (like a sidewalk) was already illegal, but a new ordinance gives police in Las Vegas more enforcement powers to stop it. Video by ktnv.com
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Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- Peddling on a public right of way (like a sidewalk) was already illegal, but a new ordinance gives police in Las Vegas more enforcement powers to stop it.
That means no selling anything; No water bottles, no T-shirts, not even a photo with a costumed character without a proper business license.
However, there is a grace period.
"We're not giving out citations just yet. We're giving out warnings as a courtesy," said Officer Marcus Martin.
Police will start handing out citations soon.
The new rule is this: Anyone selling anything to a passerby could face a misdemeanor charge with a punishment of up to $1,000 and six months in jail.
There were few peddlers on the Strip this Monday, but the real test will be in the coming weekend.
The ordinance says no one can charge a fee for any product, but they can ask for a donation or engage in free speech.
"Somehow so-called 'smut peddlers' have been deemed as free speech," said Martin. Therefore, that group will not be affected. The problem is most prevalent on the Strip, but the ordinance affects the entire county -- meaning offenders can be ticketed on other streets.
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