You know what they say: it’s easier to remove a rule than to add one once you’ve launched. Rule development can be an uncomfortable and daunting task but is necessary for running a successful market and having smooth operation days. These rules can be as minimal or as expansive as you see fit for your market, but we recommend having a basic framework for vendors to operate under. This should include market operation hours and the expected set-up/tear-down rules, method of vendor stall assignment, and more.
Check out the resources below for information on creating rules, and examples you can build off of:
- Understanding Farmers Market Rules, from the Farmers Legal Action Group, Inc.
- Farmers Markets Rules & Policies (from a lawyer) – Journal of Food Law & Policy (California).
- Free speech at Farmers Markets, from the Farmers Market Legal Toolkit.
Alaskan Examples you can build off of or use for inspiration:
- 2021 Tanana Valley Farmers Market Policy manual
- Homer Farmers Market Policy Handbook
- The Anchorage Market & Festival Vendor Handbook (older resource, 2011)
- Wasilla City Market 2011 Vendor Handbook