SANTEE, Calif. — Christmas is coming — and for Santee residents near Starlight Circle, so are some regulations.
Trash and traffic in recent years have cluttered the streets of Tommel Court, Magnolia Avenue and Glendon Circles as thousands of San Diego County flock to the neighborhood for some holiday light shows and street-vendor snacks like elote and hot cocoa. But with new regulations approved by the city, residents are hoping the streets will remain clean and clear of traffic as they spread holiday cheer.
Santee City Council approved an ordinance that allows the city to enforce rules on private events that impact city functions. This means city resources can be used for events like this to protect the safety and welfare of its residents.
Here's what you need to know if you decide to take a stroll or drive through this popular Christmas-coated neighborhood.
Restrooms, parking at Starlight Circle
Porta-potties are available in the Santana High School parking lot, but only Friday-Sunday. During the week, they're locked and unavailable to use.
Free parking can also be found in the Santana High School parking lot. The city asks spectators to please not park in the neighborhood so residents can easily access their homes. "No Parking" signs have been placed along Tomel Ct. to help traffic congestion and emergency vehicles that may need to come in.
In addition to parking and restrooms, there are also 30 trash cans throughout Starlight Circle to avoid littering.
Vendors at Starlight Circle
Some homes in the neighborhood capitalize on the high foot traffic and sell holiday treats such as hot cocoa, popcorn or local bites like elote or bacon-wrapped hot dogs. For homeowners in the area looking to sell food from home, they must obtain two permits, a Home Occupation Permit from Santee and a Cottage Food Permit from the County.
But the area has also been congested with unlawful street vendors who aren't permitted or don't live in the neighborhood.
Stationary sidewalk vendors are prohibited in residential areas. The sole exception to this are roaming, or mobile, sidewalk vendors.