New Strip ordinance

As part of its push to make Strip sidewalks safer and cleaner, the Clark County Commission last week approved an ordinance that bans "dangerous objects" along or adjacent to Las Vegas Boulevard between Russell Road and Sahara Avenue.

The new code prohibits the use of devices capable of shooting flames or other projectiles (such as fireworks), toy guns, blades longer than 3 inches, electrical generators and cords, skateboards and roller blades. The ordinance, which targets street performances, does not ban electric scooters, such as those used by the disabled, or guns.

Reacting to criticism about litter, unlicensed vendors and street performers on the corridor, county commissioners in the past year already have approved ordinances banning pets and people who sell water and other goods without a license. Commissioners also placed some restrictions on the legions of aggressive handbillers, most of whom are promoting the skin trade, by making them clean up after themselves.

Todd Fasulo, a Las Vegas police captain, said simply possessing the banned items will not lead to a ticket under the new law. Officers will be looking for situations that pose a danger to the public, such as juggling fire or using fireworks. He cited a recent incident in which a performer had a gas-powered generator next to a 5-gallon container of gasoline. Initially, police plan to hand out warnings instead of misdemeanor tickets punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Repeat offenders could be arrested.

The Strip is state's most important tourist destination, and visitors and locals alike should be able to enjoy it safely with minimal hassle.

With the new code, county officials satisfied the American Civil Liberties Union of Nevada, which has rightly fought overreaching Strip ordinances that target protected expression and are obviously unconstitutional. The ACLU has no complaints about this step, and neither do we.