City responds to growing illegal street vending in the Downtown Eastside

Starting today, in response to concerns around public safety and accessibility on the 000-block of East Hastings, the City will begin taking a firmer approach to enforcement of the Street and Traffic By-law on Hastings St to address congestion and safety risks due to illegal street vending. 

The street vending scene on Hastings St has also become a primary destination for stolen goods, both locally and across the region. Addressing this activity is a priority for the City. There is also significant spillover onto the street, creating additional safety risks for both pedestrians and motorists.

The increased enforcement in the area aims to support safer access for all pedestrians, particularly those with mobility needs and to address the misuse of City sidewalks for the fencing of stolen goods.  Engineering Services, with support from the Vancouver Police Department, will step up enforcement on Hastings St, requiring vendors to clear the sidewalks. If vendors do not comply, staff may impound their items. Penalties for unpermitted vending may also include fines.  

“Our first priority is the safety and well-being of all Vancouverites, especially those in our vulnerable communities,” says Mayor Ken Sim. “Increased enforcement of illegal vending demonstrates our continued commitment to ensuring the Downtown Eastside streets are safe and accessible for everyone.”

“The illicit market on East Hastings Street has fueled a violent shoplifting epidemic that continues to impact the safety of business owners, staff, and shoppers throughout Vancouver,” says Chief Adam Palmer. “Thousands of dollars in merchandise is stolen every day– often with violence by repeat offenders – and resold for pennies on the dollar by criminal networks in the Downtown Eastside.” 

The City recognizes that there are vulnerable people in the Downtown Eastside who rely on subsistence vending to supplement their income or engage in street vending under threat from predatory criminals. Staff are actively exploring ways that the City could work with the Downtown Eastside community economic development organizations to expand alternate, safer, and legal pathways for low-barrier income generation.
 
The By-law against illegal selling on the street applies to all areas of the city. Property owners who see vending in front of their business should call 311 to report the address.