For Immediate Release
Media Contact
Charles Basham III | [email protected]
ADVISORY: Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection Public Advisory Regarding Abandoned Property
WASHINGTON, DC – The District of Columbia aims to avoid unforeseen accidents and/or occurrences due to lack of space in public areas. It is also important to maintain the physical appearance of District streets and thoroughfares for the community at large.
Vendors who leave their property unattended or abandoned after vending hours pose a risk of removal. No merchandise, food, equipment, or other items related to the operation of a vending vehicle, vending stand, or vending cart shall be stored or otherwise kept on the public space beyond the hours of operation of the vending business.
Vendors may operate only during the following hours:
- Sunday through Thursday, from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.; and
- Friday and Saturday from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the next day; provided that vendors operating in Residential Zones, as specified in the District of Columbia Zoning Regulations, shall not vend past 10:00 p.m. on any night of the week.
To address and manage risks, District authorities are taking action to remove abandoned property related to vending operations and enforce regulations regarding the use of public spaces. Enforcement activity includes:
- Verbal warnings
- Notices of Infractions (NOIs)
- Removal
Items left in public space after vending hours of operation such as tables and tents are considered abandoned and/or hazardous and will be removed by the District. Signage will be placed in the Columbia Heights and Mt. Pleasant neighborhoods.
We have provided some FAQs to address any questions specific to vending materials removed during enforcement efforts and any concerns of those whose property may
have been removed.
For additional questions or concerns please reach out to the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) at (202) 671-4500.