The Venice Boardwalk has approximately 205 spaces designated for artists, vendors, performers and persons engaging in free speech. In February of 2012 modifications were made to the rules on “vending” on the Venice Beach boardwalk. You can click here to review the entire ordinance.
Vending Spaces:
Vending spaces are FREE, and are available on a “first come, first served” basis daily. Performing in spaces is permitted given that you “rotate” on a schedule if other performers also want to use the same space.
Vending Hours:
Hours are from 9 a.m. to Sunset daily. You may NOT set up in a space or “mark” a space prior to 9 a.m. You must wait adjacent to the vending space you wish to occupy. Waiting on the grassy area is encouraged so you do no obstruct pedestrians or merchants along the buildings on Ocean Front Walk.
Items PROHIBITED FROM SALES:
If you plan on selling items, they must be hand crafted only, or reflect permitted free speech items. The list can be found in the ordinance. However here is a list of a few common items people often ask questions about.
YOU MAY NOT SELL:
- Food of any kind. ( You can only give it away for free in two designated spaces with a permit )
- Animals of any kind ever. That means you CAN NOT come sell your litter of puppies or kittens along the boardwalk.
- Commercial, mass produced items.
- Clothing or items that have “nominal utility” or “use”
Fights, intimidation and general unfriendly activity:
The Venice Beach Boardwalk spaces are in high demand in the Spring and Summer months. Many vendors are homeless, and many engage in space marking and other forms of ensuring a spot which violate the laws governing the area. If you decide to participate in vending activities on Venice Beach we suggest you be prepared. Visit the LAPD substation and Park Office on the beach first. Put 1-877-ASK-LAPD on speed dial in your phone and report violations or intimidation. Our best advice is to be part of the solution rather than turn a blind eye or be part of the problems that contribute to an unsafe environment.
Prior to the recent court injunction there was a lottery system for allocating spaces. Since the lottery was ended, the Department of Recreation & Parks and LAPD have made concerted efforts to keep the boardwalk area safe for the vendors, merchants, residents and visitors. There has been a substantial increase in fights over spaces requiring LAPD intervention. Vendors have also been lining up in front of the “East Side” merchants and property along the boardwalk, leaving trash and debris, and obscuring the sidewalk and entrances to adjacent buildings. Prospective vendors have also been reported to be marking spaces in violation of the 42.15 ordinance causing unsightly trash, garbage and sanitation issues. Please make an effort to keep the boardwalk free of debris and if there is an issue or discrepancy over a vending space please call LAPD at 1-877-275-5273 (1-877-ASK-LAPD).
