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DC Vendors Protest Inauguration Day Rules

Tuesday, Dec 30, 2008 | Updated 12:14 PM EDT

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Washington - A sign outside the U.S. Capitol at dawn notes that the area is closed for construction of the 2009 presidential inauguration site.

WASHINGTON -- City vendors are holding a rally to voice concerns over regulations the D.C. government has established for sales on Inauguration Day.

About a dozen vendors and advocates gathered Monday at the city's consumer affairs department on North Capitol Street.

Some vendors say the city's fees are too high. Others say some designated vending spots are in out-of-the-way areas.

D.C. officials are accepting applications until Tuesday for a lottery that will decide which vendors get preference for the 700 vending sites near the inaugural parade route and another 1,000 around the city.

Brenda Sayles, a vending advocate and part-time vendor, has said many vendors don't know whether to stock up on merchandise or hold off until Jan. 6 when they find out whether they get a guaranteed vending site.