D.C. Code § 37-131.02: Vending from public space.

(a)

Except as set forth in subsection (b) of this section, a person shall not vend from a sidewalk, roadway, or other public space unless the person holds:

(1)

A basic business license;

(2)

A vending site permit, or other authorization issued by the Mayor, setting forth the specific location on public space from which the person may vend; and

(3)

Such other licenses, permits, and authorizations that the Mayor may require by rule.

(b)

The Mayor may authorize the following persons to vend from public space without a basic business license or vending site permit:

(1)

An employee or youth assistant of a licensed vendor;

(2)

A person vending at a licensed special event;

(3)

A person vending at a farmers market or public market that has been issued a valid permit by the Mayor; and

(4)

A person or entity authorized to vend from public space without a license pursuant to subsection (d) of this section.

(c)

Repealed.

(d)

The Mayor may establish by regulation exemptions from the licensure requirement for a person, entity, or categories of persons or entities to vend from public space without a basic business license when the public interest would be served by establishing such an exemption.

(e)

Vendors may operate only during the following hours:

(1)

Sunday through Thursday, from 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.; and

(2)

Friday and Saturday from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. the next day; provided, that vendors operating in Residential Zones, as specified in the District of Columbia Zoning Regulations, shall not vend past 10:00 p.m. on any night of the week.