Planning to be a vendor at Laconia Bike Week 2024? This guide provides a comprehensive checklist and overview of the regulations to ensure you’re fully prepared for America’s Original Riding Rally. Navigating the rules and requirements is crucial for a successful vending experience in Laconia.
Key Dates and Deadlines for Vendors
While specific dates may vary slightly year to year, understanding the general timeframe for Laconia Bike Week vendor permits is essential. Typically, vendor activities are centered around a 9-day period in June. For planning purposes, vendors should be aware of potential deadlines related to applications and payments.
- Event Duration: Laconia Bike Week generally spans over a week in June. Vendors should confirm the exact dates for 2024.
- Application Deadlines: Early application is highly recommended. Keep an eye out for deadlines, often in late spring or early summer. Late application fees may apply, especially after early June.
- Payment Deadlines: Payment deadlines are strictly enforced. Checks may have earlier cut-off dates, with cashier’s checks, money orders, or online payments being required closer to the event. Trademark fees, if applicable, often have payment deadlines as well.
Securing Your Vending Location
Vending at Laconia Bike Week requires pre-approved locations within the city. Vendors cannot simply set up shop anywhere.
- Approved Locations: Vending is restricted to city-approved locations. You must secure a space from approved property owners.
- Property Owner Permission: Property owners must officially permit each vendor on their property. A property owner permission form is necessary and must be submitted to the Licensing Clerk. Your vendor application will not be processed without this form.
- Contacting Property Owners: Obtain a list of approved property owners from the city of Laconia to inquire about space availability and secure your vending spot.
Application and Licensing Process
A formal application and licensing process is in place for all vendors at Laconia Bike Week.
- Vendor Application Form: Complete the official vendor application form provided by the City of Laconia. This form gathers essential information about your business and vending activities.
- Submission and Payment: Mail your completed application along with the required payment to the City of Laconia Licensing Department. Online payment options are often available for convenience, potentially with added fees.
- Separate Licenses: Each vending location requires a separate license, even if locations are on the same property. Subletting of vending space is strictly prohibited.
Essential Vendor Regulations and Compliance
Vendors are expected to adhere to a range of regulations to ensure safety and compliance during Laconia Bike Week.
- Compliance with Laws: Vendors are responsible for following all applicable state and federal laws related to their business operations.
- Safety Regulations: Strict adherence to safety regulations is mandatory. Food vendors have additional regulations from both the City of Laconia and the State of New Hampshire regarding food vending safety and hygiene.
- Health Inspections for Food Vendors: Food vendors must pass health inspections and pay an additional health inspection fee per vending space. Non-profit food vendors are also subject to these fees and inspections.
- Fire Permits: Vendors using flammable heat sources for food preparation or any other purpose must obtain a permit from the Laconia Fire Department. Refer to City regulations for specific requirements.
- Tattoo Vendor Licensing: Tattoo vendors require approval from the New Hampshire Department of Health and must possess a Tattoo Practitioner license from the State. State paperwork submission deadlines are in place and must be met for license approval.
Trademark and Merchandise Regulations
Laconia Bike Week and related trademarks are protected. Vendors selling merchandise bearing these trademarks must obtain a license.
- Trademark Licensing: The City of Laconia owns trademarks such as “Laconia Bike Week®,” “America’s Original Riding Rally®,” and “World’s Oldest Motorcycle Rally®.”
- Trademark Application: Vendors intending to sell merchandise with these trademarks must apply for and obtain a trademark license from the City of Laconia Licensing Board.
- Unlicensed Merchandise: Selling unlicensed trademarked merchandise can result in revocation of your vending permit. Trademark fees must be paid by specified deadlines to receive vendor permits.
Vendor Operational Guidelines
Specific operational guidelines are in place for vendors during Laconia Bike Week.
- Booth Set-up: During the set-up period, vendor booths and merchandise must be shielded from public view.
- Trash Disposal: Vendors are responsible for proper trash disposal using receptacles provided by the property owner. Public barrels are not for vendor use.
- Walkway Clearance: Merchandise is strictly prohibited in walkways to ensure pedestrian traffic flow and safety. This regulation is rigorously enforced.
Contact Information
For any questions regarding vendor licensing for Laconia Bike Week, contact the Licensing Department of the City of Laconia directly at 603-528-6331.
By understanding and adhering to these regulations, vendors can ensure a smooth and successful Laconia Bike Week 2024 experience. Preparation and early application are key to maximizing your vending opportunity at this iconic motorcycle rally.
Please note: While this information is based on vendor regulations, always refer to the official City of Laconia documents and website for the most up-to-date information and specific requirements for Laconia Bike Week 2024.
