Easter Baskets Could Bring Hefty Fines

              Permits, regulations required to sell cascarones and other holiday treats

Laredo, TX—March 23, 2009—A long-standing tradition of selling holiday baskets or even offering other kinds of instant “roadside service” was clogging city streets, creating dangerous traffic and public health situations and also, undermining the proper way of conducting business in Laredo.  

In 2004, the City of Laredo passed an ordinance that required vendors to have a private premises vendor’s permit, along with other requirements, to be able to sell their wares on Laredo by-ways.  The application process requires, among other things, that private vendors offer restroom facilities and adequate parking for their customers.  The permit, which is issued for a specific location, does not allow for vendors to sell in the City’s right-of-way.

“We want to keep our citizens safe,” said Albert Garza, Zoning Enforcement Supervisor for the City of Laredo, “which is why it is very important that as the Easter season approaches, anyone who is considering selling the very popular Easter baskets and cascarones, does so safely and properly,” he added.  “We urge all citizens who plan to sell Easter items to come by and secure a permit,” concluded Garza.  

Zoning enforcement officers, as well as Laredo Police Department ordinance officers, will be out enforcing the ordinance citing offenders for not having the required proper permit.  Hefty fines, starting at $500, will be assessed.   

For more information or to report violations, please call the City of Laredo Building Development Services Department at (956) 794-1625.  Anyone wishing to fill out an application can stop by the department, located at 1120 San Bernardo Avenue, Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.  Permits must be obtained at least one week prior to selling goods.