For many years, Torrance residents have been allowed to sell food and drink unabated during December to allow for holiday traditions like the famous Sleepy Hollow (also referred to as Seaside Holiday Lights and incorrectly, “Candy Cane Lane”) in the Seaside Ranchos Torrance neighborhood.

Yet in late September, Torrance City Council voted 6-1 against permitting residents from selling food and drinks from 5 to 9 p.m. Dec. 8-31. This effectively prevents all Hot Chocolate and other festive dessert sales within Sleepy Hollow during peak hours. Home owners who continue selling would face $100, $200, and $500 fines for each additional violation of the rule.

Now is the time to let City Council hear how we feel about this un-festive and controversial ruling, before the holiday season approaches. 

What do we want?

Ideally we would like to see City Council create a ruling that allows for private residences to sell food and drink (on their property) in the month of December. We understand the desire to prohibit roaming/outside vendors, but this compromise would allow homeowners to keep up their traditions and financially support the event.