BY AMANDA VANDERBROEK/ROANOKE-CHOWAN NEWS-HERALD
Amanda.vanderbroek@r-cnews.com

MURFREESBORO, N.C.—Vendors at the upcoming Watermelon Festival will need a permit to conduct business within town limits.

The Murfreesboro Town Council unanimously approved an ordinance requiring permits after a public hearing on the issue. The annual festival will be held Wednesday, July 27, through Saturday, July 30.

The Watermelon Festival Committee will issue permits and pay the town an amount of money to be determined.

Each application will be reviewed by the committee, and priority will be given to merchants in town and residents. The committee also will limit the number of permits given for concession sales to a number that will provide for adequate food, beverage, souvenirs and other concession services without causing overcrowding. Vendors will need to display their permit.

Anyone who does not apply for a permit could be fined up to $500.