Charlotte City Council approves permit plan for NoDa street vendors

CHARLOTTE — Monday night, the Charlotte City Council unanimously voted to pass a pilot program that would require vendors in NoDa to obtain permits to sell their goods on North Davidson Street.

PAST COVERAGE: Charlotte City Council to debate street vendor rules in NoDa

This will regulate street vending in one of Charlotte’s most popular neighborhoods, known for its vibrant art and culture scene.

Currently, street vending is only regulated in some parts of Uptown leaving NoDa vendors unregulated.

“Fashion is, to me, my way of being able to express my art,” said Irena Robinson, a street vendor.

Robinson upcycles and reworks vintage clothing.

She often sells her clothing on the streets of NoDa and loves it when someone is drawn to her passion.

“It makes my eyes light up even more,” Robinson said. “I feel like I’m doing the right thing. It’s wonderful that people appreciate my art.”

The pilot program will increase the fine for selling without a license from $50 to $500, a significant hike intended to enforce compliance among vendors.

“Either they’re going to shut down or they’re going to move,” Robinson said.

City leaders have expressed a desire to maintain oversight without discouraging business, amid passionate opinions on whether regulation is necessary.

Charlotte City Councilmember Dimple Ajmera says that’s not the intention

“Our goal is to balance the public safety aspect while supporting the entrepreneurial spirit and the unique character of the NoDa neighborhood and this program is to not push any street vendors out of business,” said Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera, D- At large.

She said the city wants to provide a structured environment where street vendors and the existing businesses can thrive.

“We got to make sure that brick and mortar businesses, as well as street vendors, can co-exist, and our goal is to create a harmony among all of them,” Ajmera said.

Ajmera says the pilot program will allow the health department to inspect vendors selling food and drink on the street.

VIDEO: Charlotte council eyes rules for NoDa street vendors