First legal street vendor opens for business in the Las Vegas Valley

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (FOX5) – The very first legal and licensed street vendor in the Las Vegas Valley opened for business, while advocates say too many others face financial and legal hurdles to get a license.

FOX5 introduced you to Manuel Carrera and his son, Alan, the first business to get a health and business license to operate as a street vendor.

Wednesday, they opened up “Aguas Y Frescas” outside the Circle K on Dean Martin Drive and Cactus Avenue.

“Anybody can do it. We just hope that other people, they’re willing to do the same thing and follow the process,” Carrera said.

Customers came to support the small business. On social media, many applauded the entrepreneur for pursuing a path to operate legally.

Advocates with Make the Road Nevada, who have been representing the needs and concerns of more than a hundred local street vendors across the Valley, said they applaud the two street vendors who overcame hurdles to get licensed, but far more face challenges to afford a license and equipment upgrades. Upfront licensing costs start at more than $1,200 for a state license, county license and health district permit.

Clark County officials said as of Wednesday, two street vendors had been granted business licenses to operate.

“I want to emphasize that we are, in fact, happy for the two and celebrate them, but there should be hundreds. Due to the county ordinance, there is only two,” said Tony Hernandez with Make the Road Nevada.

Make The Road Nevada plans to hold office hours to help more street vendors properly apply for a license, and crowdfund to help struggling families pay for upgrades.

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