City launches rental program for street traders

PANAMA’S Municipal Council  has extended charging  for use of sidewalks and plazas in Casco Viejo to  the rest of the city and further padding the city treasury.

The Official Gazette carries details of a plan that “regulates the use of sidewalks and public spaces.”

Traders “wishing to arrange a temporary permit to occupy the sidewalk must pay a monthly rate of $200, plus $25 per square meter of occupation, per month.”

The permit will be valid for two years.

The permit  will be denied for businesses facing schools, kindergartens, universities, hospitals, clinics, health centers, churches, gyms, arenas, convention centers and public offices, says the  notice.

Sanctions for violations of the regulations   will range from $500 to $2,000.