Vote on street vendor rules set for Dec. 14

San Diego’s possible crackdown on sidewalk pushcart vendors could be coming in December, when City Council President Dr. Jennifer Campbell says she plans to unveil long-awaited legislation.

“After receiving critical input from everyone this issue touches, I believe this ordinance will balance the needs of residents, vendors and our public spaces,” Campbell said in a news release. “I look forward to addressing this crucial issue for San Diegans.”

The proposed law, which wouldn’t take effect until January at the earliest, will come later than many hoped. When Campbell began spearheading efforts to rein in vendors in May, her staff said she planned to propose legislation in October.

The proposed crackdown will come amid an uproar of complaints about unfair competition and illegal dumping of trash and grease in some neighborhoods.

Merchant groups in downtown and the city’s beach communities say vendors have flooded business districts and parks, with no restrictions, because of a 3-year-old state law encouraging street vending as a new class of small business.

Advocates for street vendors say critics have exaggerated the dangers and disruption created by the vendors, and that those complaining are mostly businesses frustrated they are facing new competition from street vendors.

While the advocates say they welcome new city legislation focused on clearing up gray areas in state law, they want any policy proposal to be based on data and analysis instead of knee-jerk reactions. They also say the rules should vary by neighborhood.

Campbell said her proposed legislation won’t be unveiled until a few days before the Dec. 14 City Council meeting. However, she expressed confidence it will be well-received.

“After many conversations with community members, stakeholders, vendors and enforcement agencies, our office is proud to announce that I will be bringing forward a street vending ordinance,” she said.