Lexington requires peddlers and itinerant merchants to obtain a license under Code of Ordinances Chapter 15. Transient merchants must file an application with the Division of Revenue at least ten days before conducting business, per KRS 365.650 state requirements.
Chapter 15 of the LFUCG Code of Ordinances governs peddlers, itinerant merchants, and solicitors in Lexington. All peddlers and itinerant merchants must comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws and operate in a manner ensuring the safety of patrons, pedestrians, and the public. Transient merchants as defined under KRS 365.650 must file a completed application with the LFUCG Division of Revenue at least ten days prior to conducting business. Mobile food unit vendors require a separate per-unit license; operators with more than one unit pay an additional fifty-dollar fee for each additional mobile food unit. Mobile food vendors must also obtain a general zoning compliance permit from the Division of Planning, valid for two years, which requires a site plan depicting the proposed vending location. A food service permit from the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department is required for any vendor selling prepared food. Vendors must also obtain a Lexington occupational license and comply with all applicable state agency requirements. Door-to-door sales are limited to 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. General lawful hours of operation for peddlers and itinerant merchants are 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM unless otherwise authorized by the urban county government.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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