January 2025
Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
Happy New Year and a joyful Lunar New Year to all! As we step into 2025, we celebrate the spirit of the Year of the Snake, which symbolizes introspection, transformation, and growth.
This year began with a transformational occasion for our nation: the 60th Presidential Inauguration. The Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) worked diligently to support our city and businesses participating in the Inauguration, making sure they had the necessary licenses and oversight to contribute to this event safely. This was made possible not only by the incredible efforts of our partner agencies, but by our staff and volunteers whose dedication was key to the event's success.
Additionally, this month, I testified at our agency's annual Performance Oversight Hearing. The hearing provided an opportunity to reflect on DLCP’s accomplishments and challenges during Fiscal Year 2024 and to outline our priorities and plans for Fiscal Year 2025. More details from the hearing can be found below.
As we move forward into the new year, we are inspired by the theme of transformation, knowing that our continued efforts will help shape a brighter, more prosperous future for the District and its residents.
We look forward to collaborating with you in the coming year as we thrive and grow together in this new chapter.
Best regards,
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
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On January 23, 2025, Director Tiffany Crowe testified before the Council of the District of Columbia during DLCP's annual Performance Oversight Hearing, hosted by the Committee on Public Works and Operations. In her testimony, Director Crowe shared highlights from Fiscal Year (FY) 2024, outlined opportunities for improvement in FY 2025, and detailed the agency’s plans for the remainder of the fiscal year.
Director Crowe highlighted several key accomplishments. DLCP issued nearly 15% more basic business licenses compared to the previous year. In the first quarter of FY 2025 alone, the agency handled nearly as many investigations as it did during the entirety of FY 2023 and conducted 500 more complaint-based investigations in FY 2024 than the year before, all while responding to the community's demands for a stronger focus on vending in the District. More than 520 individuals were licensed to operate vending businesses this year, and enforcement efforts resulted in just four citations issued in Columbia Heights in 2024.
DLCP remains committed to continuous improvement and will continue to prioritize customer service, enforcement, and the overall success of its programs.
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DLCP proudly supports Winter Restaurant Week, taking place from January 27 to February 2. This exciting event, hosted by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), offers an excellent opportunity for customers to enjoy three-course culinary specials at local restaurants while supporting the District’s vibrant dining scene.
Participating in Restaurant Week not only boosts DC's economy, but also strengthens community ties and helps sustain local businesses during the winter months. DLCP encourages everyone to take part in this celebration of our diverse food culture and show their support for the hardworking restaurant owners and staff who contribute so much to our community.
The DLCP Business Resource Center (BRC) team is kicking off the new year with an exciting lineup of workshops, sessions, and strategic partnerships aimed at supporting and empowering local businesses. These efforts are part of DLCP's broader commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities for business owners across the District.
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On Thursday, January 9, the BRC team hosted its first session of the year, the General Business License Bootcamp, at the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization (MHCDO). The session provided a general overview, with experts guiding entrepreneurs through essential steps like business licensing, registration, and tax requirements. More than twenty attendees participated, ready to learn how to navigate the critical processes involved in starting and growing a successful business in the District. |
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On Friday, January 10, BRC members participated in a Small Business Training Seminar hosted by AcademyDC, the Office of Tax and Revenue, and radio personality EZ Street. In partnership with the Office of Returning Citizens, the seminar offered vital information on business licensing, tax filing, and Clean Hands Certificates, providing a promising path to entrepreneurship for individuals with criminal records. |
DLCP representatives Aurice Long, Tamika Wood, and Vickie Matthews led attendees through the steps of corporate registration and obtaining a license to operate as street vendors. A special thanks to the BRC team for their continued hard work and dedication in supporting local entrepreneurs. To learn more about upcoming events and opportunities, click here. |
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On Monday, January 20, DLCP team members from various departments worked together to maintain order and safety during the 60th Presidential Inauguration. They monitored both merchandise and food vendors, making sure all operations complied with District regulations. Temporary Street Vending Licenses were issued to vendors, allowing them to operate legally during the event.
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Volunteers were stationed across the District, overseeing seven vending zones to verify compliance and provide support. Their efforts were essential in creating a well-organized and successful event, assisting 36 licensed vendors who brought energy and character to the celebration. |
This event was one to remember, and DLCP is proud to have contributed to making the celebration both enjoyable and in alignment with District regulations. |
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Look below for DLCP-related Council happenings and new laws in December
- On January 30, 2025, the Chairperson Tamora Papas and Chairperson Edward Downs with the Board of Real Estate Appraisers and the Real Estate Commission, respectively, appeared before the Committee on Housing for their annual Performance Oversight Hearing.
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B26-26, the Theatrical Wrestling Regulation Amendment Act of 2025- Introduced by Councilmember Brianne Nadeau, the bill would exempt "theatrical wrestling" from the Combat Sports Commission's requirements for hosting an event in the District.
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L25-237, the Landscape Architect Services Sales Tax Clarification Amendment Act of 2024- Introduced by Councilmember Charles Allen, The law would clarify that landscape architecture services performed by a landscape architect, licensed in the District or provided by a design firm that employs a landscape architect licensed in the District, shall be exempt from the requirement to charge sales tax on the sale of or charges for the service of real property maintenance and landscaping. NOTE: The legislation was passed subject to appropriations.
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L25-255, the Medical Cannabis Clarification and Program Enforcement Amendment Act of 2024- Introduced by Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie, the legislation would make permanent the prior emergency legislation that Council has passed regarding unlicensed medical cannabis establishment enforcement; create a stipulated license application process; clarify the process for unlicensed establishment being issued a medical cannabis cultivation center, retailer, or internet retailer license; clarifying the protest process; and the enforcement and fine scheme for unlicensed establishments.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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