San Jose City Council backs tougher rules to crack down on unpermitted street vendors

San Jose police officials told city leaders they need more tools to impound the property of illicit street vendors in downtown, especially during events.

The City Council voted unanimously Tuesday to accept Police Chief Paul Joseph’s proposal to create a new street peddler permit policy to streamline law enforcement powers and remove permitting barriers. Police officials went to the city with the proposal since the department is anticipating it might need additional funding for enforcement in the upcoming budget. Food and merchandise peddlers, whether moving or stationary, are required to have a permit from the San Jose Police Department.