The City of Laurel has issued a warning to vendors and business operators who migrate from place to place concerning code requirements.

Wanda Benson with the city’s Public Relations Office, said an increase in transient vendors and businesses operations on the sides of city streets have caused some concern.

“We are just notifying transient vendors and businesses that they will now have to adhere by the Code of Ordinance that is in effect in the City of Laurel,” she said. “There’s no new ordinances or requirements. We are just letting them know that the codes will be more strongly enforced.”

According to the city’s ordinance concerning transient vendors and businesses, certain requirements must be met in order to operate a business or sale items within the city limits.

“The ordinance clearly states that it is illegal for any person who transacts business in this state — either in one locality or by traveling from place to place in this state — without the proper license,” Benson said. “The ordinances have always required a permit. However, some people just didn’t come to City Hall and purchase one. That’s going to change.”

City Clerk Mary Ann Hess’ office issues permits for the City of Laurel.

Officials said the cost of the transient vendor/business permit is $250.

“The permit is not transferable and is valid for a period of ninety (90) days,” Benson said referring to the ordinance. “The said permit may be renewed one (1) time during a 12-month period for a fee of $25, after which a brand new permit must be applied for as described above.”

Hess said “anyone wishing to purchase a license to operate in the City of Laurel should come by the City Clerk’s Office in (the Laurel) City Hall during business hours — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday — to get a permit.”

In addition to the permit to operate the business, the ordinance also addresses the location of the transient business.

“Along with the permit, they also need permission from property owners,” Benson said. “Transient vendors may not sell any products or services on any property without having first obtained written permission from the owner or legal occupancy of the premises upon with sales of product or services may be offered.”

Benson said Laurel Deputy Police Chief Billy Chandler said officers of the Laurel Police Department will be out checking for permits (licenses) of those who are selling items in various locations throughout the City of Laurel.

“We are just informing people that they need to follow the guidelines,” Benson said. “The ordinance has been in effect for some time, the city will just be enforcing it more.”

Anyone needing more information concerning business licenses and permits can contact Hess or the employees of the City Clerk’s Office during business hours at Laurel City Hall or by calling (601) 428-6404.