A pilot program was approved in West Hollywood aims to help street food vendors by designating an area for their sales, as it also helps them navigate permitting and other regulatory requirements.
The West Hollywood City Council discussed on Monday the Rainbow District Sidewalk Pilot Program introduced by Vice Mayor Danny Hang. According to the motion, the program will “focus on promoting entrepreneurship and creating a pathway for sidewalk food vendors to become licensed and permitted businesses.”
Under the pilot, staff is directed to provide recommendations for the designated zone in the Rainbow District, eligibility, fee assistance and other changes and initiatives before it could come to life. Another component considered in the pilot program is the privacy of participants.
“The City recognizes that some vendors may be hesitant to formalize their businesses due to concerns about federal immigration enforcement,” a staff report on the pilot program read. “Consistent with West Hollywood’s longstanding commitment as a sanctuary city, the program should be designed to reduce those barriers and protect vendor privacy and safety throughout the City’s registration and permitting process.”
Those who are approved for the program must still comply with all health and safety requirements.
It’s unclear when the pilot program will launch. Requirements for eligibility have yet to be determined.
