The Casper City Council has taken a significant step towards supporting local businesses by approving the first reading of an ordinance that would ease restrictions on mobile vendors operating in the city’s downtown and Old Yellowstone districts. This move is aimed at increasing the utilization of parking permits by local businesses and providing greater benefits to residents.
Changes to Permit Regulations
The proposed amendments to the municipal code include removing the previous limit of 10 days per month for a mobile vendor on a single block face. Additionally, the number of allowed mobile vendors per block will increase from one to two. For situations where more than two vendors wish to operate on the same block, a street closure and special event permit would still be required.
The permit fee structure is also set for a change, transitioning from a $25-per-spot charge to a flat $25 permit fee. While simplifying the fee, the existing limits on parking space remain, allowing for a maximum of two parallel spaces or three diagonal spaces per application.
Operational Guidelines
Mobile vendors, defined as owners or operators of vehicles or trailers that exchange goods or services for payment, must obtain a food license from the Casper-Natrona County Health Department before receiving a mobile vendor parking permit. The ordinance maintains operational rules, prohibiting vendors from parking in alleys, parkways, handicapped spaces, or fire lanes. Vendors must ensure sidewalk access and are prohibited from operating in a manner that requires customers to stand in driving or parking areas. They are also responsible for cleaning up litter and managing potential hazards like product spills within a 30-foot radius of their vehicle.
Violations of these regulations constitute a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. Additionally, any vendor who incurs two or more violations within a 12-month period faces a six-week revocation of their ability to apply for new permits.
The ordinance must pass two additional readings before it is officially adopted into the Casper Municipal Code. This initiative reflects the city’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment while ensuring public safety and accessibility.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
