SANTE FE, N.M. (AP) - Santa Fe is imposing new restrictions on street performers in the northern New Mexico city.
The restrictions unanimously approved Wednesday night by the City Council are a response to complaints by vendors and businesses in the historic downtown plaza that musicians, jugglers and other performers’ behavior can be aggressive and disruptive.
The council approved the so-called “busker ordinance” despite being warned by the American Civil Liberties Union that the measure could unconstitutionally encroach on the performer’s rights to free speech.
The restrictions taking effect May 12 included a requirement that performers stay at least 50 feet away from each other and other vendors.
Other provisions include a requirement that performers periodically move at least 100 feet and new time nad location restrictions on use of amplification.
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