Sault Ste. Marie Enhances Regulations for Vendors & Peddlers

The City of Sault Ste. Marie has implemented revised regulations for food vendors and street peddlers, prioritizing public safety and consumer protection. These changes, which came into effect two weeks ago, include mandatory criminal record checks and updated licensing procedures.

Criminal Record Checks Now Required

All individuals operating food vending vehicles or engaging in the sale of goods from place to place – including offering samples – are now required to undergo a Level One Police Criminal Records Check. The original results of this check must be submitted to the city clerk's department.

Jenna Ricard, from the city’s legal department, emphasized the importance of accountability and protection, stating the potential risks associated with unsupervised street vending and peddling. The city previously received these checks from applicants, but this revision makes it a formal requirement for licensing.

New Licensing for Door-to-Door Sales

A new licensing class has been introduced for peddlers conducting temporary door-to-door sales. Individual agents will now need to obtain a $50 agent’s license in addition to existing business requirements.

This license is designed to improve public safety by allowing residents to verify the identity of sales agents. Agents are required to carry and display the license while making sales. Ricard also noted this initiative aids in consumer protection and fraud prevention.

Updated Insurance Requirements

The city has also updated insurance requirements for both food vendors and street peddlers. Both are now mandated to carry at least $2 million in comprehensive general liability insurance, with the city listed as an additional insured party.

Interestingly, the required insurance coverage for food vendors has been reduced from $5 million, reflecting a reassessment of risk and a balance between protection and financial burden on local businesses.

These multifaceted changes demonstrate the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s commitment to creating a secure and trustworthy environment for both residents and visitors.