Santa Clarita / Antelope Valley : Stricter Peddler Permit Rules OKd

Peddlers and solicitors operating here without proper permits will soon face fines of up to $1,000 under a new ordinance adopted by the City Council.

The ordinance, approved by a 5-0 vote Tuesday night and set to take effect in 30 days, updates looser restrictions taken over from Los Angeles County when the city incorporated in 1987.

Vendors have been appearing door-to-door and along roadsides in Santa Clarita with greater frequency during the last year, city officials said. They hope to crack down on those who don’t have permits, which cost $125 for the first year and $45 for subsequent years.

Sunglasses, vases, rugs, stuffed animals, framed posters and various food products are just some of the items that can be purchased on roadsides. Business owners have complained that solicitors can undercut their prices when they ignore licensing requirements.

Although the large number of peddlers who swamped Santa Clarita immediately after the Northridge earthquake has dwindled, council members say the problem still exists.

“I don’t think this is going to be solved overnight,” said Mayor George Pederson, predicting the new ordinance will improve the situation.

“I saw violations of three different vendors Sunday at Hart Park,” said Councilwoman Jo Anne Darcy, moments before the council vote.

Previously, the permits were issued by the county. But under the new law, the city will issue the permits, with the county handling enforcement. Initial violations will draw a $500 fine; subsequent infractions $1,000.

Some vendors say they support increased enforcement of the licensing requirements, but are wary of additional fees.