CPD Urges Caution For Roadside Vendors

CPD PRESS RELEASE

COLUMBUS, MS -Temporary street-side vendors for Valentine’s Day gifts can interfere with proper traffic
flow and violate local regulations designed to protect the public, according to Columbus
officials.
Interim Police Chief Fred Shelton said it is about safety. “There are several vendors that are
set up too close to the roadway and also on the right-of-way. Many times traffic can’t see to
enter the roadway and that can cause accidents, ” he said.
“There is also the danger that vendors could also be hurt if someone runs off the roadway
and hits them,” he added. “We don’t want an accident to happen, and when people are
standing looking at the items, they are not watching the roadway. It’s very dangerous.”
Shelton said there are three criteria for vendors to sell on the side of the road within city
limits. “First, they must be off the right-of-way. That varies by location; so check and be
sure. Second, they need permission of the landowner. And third, they need a business permit
or transient vendor license.”
Columbus officials spent time on Thursday notifying vendors of the requirements.
“We want businesses to succeed, but we don’t want anyone hurt,” said Columbus Mayor
Robert Smith. “If these vendors will follow the guidelines, they can be successful and the
driving public can also be safe at the same time.”