Foster City finalizes sidewalk vendor, reservation fee changes

But unlicensed operators have become increasingly prevalent, competing with approved vendors near parks and events. Violations already have codified consequences, but enforcement has been difficult.

During a meeting Monday, June 4, the City Council approved a $100 sidewalk vending permit fee, and they also updated rates for a variety of park and recreation-related activities in time for the summer months.

The fee is the same amount that neighboring Burlingame charges, but still lower than several other cities in the county, such as San Bruno — charging about $500 — and Redwood City. Fines would range from $250 for a first time violation up to $1,000 for a third violation.

Other changes to the park’s reservation rates were also passed during the Monday meeting. Canceling a reservation less than two business days in advance won’t result in a refund and only a 50% refund if done between three to 13 business days ahead of time.

“We also looked at park cancellation fees, because we did want to make sure that we don’t have facilities that are not utilized because of last-minute cancellations and so forth, and so we are making recommendations at looking at our cancellation fees,” Parks and Recreation Director Derek Schweigart said.

The council is also giving nonresidents access to its park reservations. Until now, Foster City has been unique in only allowing residents to book its public spaces, but the recent change would now allow those outside the city to take advantage as well. Residents would still have priority — as they would be given more time in advance to make a reservation — and the rate would be 25% higher for nonresidents. Currently, residents pay around $40 to $80 per site for some of the parks, including parts of Leo J. Ryan, Boothbay, Bridgeview and Shorebird parks.

The recent ordinance also gives the Parks and Recreation Department more latitude regarding reservation changes, as under the current system, certain groups and meetings, such as council meetings and youth organizations, can supersede other groups’ reservations, creating a monopolization effect over reservation access. The updated regulations were unanimously approved by the council.