Vending or the selling of flowers, fruit, vegetables, sea foods or other commodities or articles is generally not permitted on a highway right-of-way. Section 189 (1) (j) of the Motor Vehicle Act prohibits these activities unless a person has received an authorization under section 62 (2) or (6) of the Transportation Act. Such authorizations will be based on the safety and suitability of the site but it is expected that they will be few in number.
Rest Area Concessions
The Ministry of Transportation has developed a program that will allow seasonal vending services to take place within certain portions of the highway rights-of-way such as rest areas or other roadside facilities. These concessions will enable vendors to sell food, locally-made products and non-alcoholic beverages to motorists. The concessions must be owner-operated , and must not compete with local vendors. The purpose is to provide more services at the rest areas and the intent is to improve highway safety by encouraging motorists to take more rest breaks when they are traveling.
Ministry staff will determine which sites are suitable for seasonal vending concessions and these concessions will be advertised on BC Bid. Applicants will be required to submit a proposal describing the services they offer and the benefits to the motoring public. In addition to highway safety considerations, other factors may include local government consent, protection of the rest areas and investment opportunities for small business. The concession must be owner-operated and the concession must compete with other area merchants. Successful applicants will receive a Seasonal Services Permit of Use and Occupation. These permits may be subject to an annual fee.
For further information on this initiative, please contact the Manager, Business Services for the Ministry of Transportation or your local District Transportation Office.
Apply for a special events permit.
Vending On or Near the Right-of-Way
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