Residents urge Santa Ana council not to allow vendors in parks, citing wildlife, trash and safety concerns

Dozens of residents used the council’s public-comment period to urge elected officials to preserve Santa Ana’s parks and oppose a proposed amendment to Chapter 26 that would allow vendors to operate in park areas.

Speakers said the parks are limited green space in a dense city and that adding commercial activity would bring more trash, noise and disturbances that harm wildlife and the park experience. “Our parks should be places for families and nature, not commercial activity,” one resident said. Others described the parks as carefully renovated public spaces that residents use daily and said the city should not add burdens like vendor permitting, inspections and policing without clear plans for enforcement and funding.

Some residents pointed to state law and existing local programs, saying the city may not be required to change local rules but should be cautious about unintended consequences. Speakers asked for clarity on permit counts, enforcement plans, fees, and whether the city would absorb inspection and administration costs or pass them to taxpayers.

Councilmembers heard requests to postpone or reconsider changes and to ensure the city’s policies protect both users and wildlife. Several residents said they had already organized petitions opposing the change and wanted the council to preserve current park standards.

The council did not take final action on Chapter 26 during the meeting; members and staff indicated the item would not be brought back immediately or that further discussion with residents and staff was needed before any formal ordinance change.