Judge Upheld Las Vegas Pedestrian Bridge Ban
A federal court dismissed a challenge to the law that carries fines up to $1,000 for stopping on bridges.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Law
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Las Vegas residents and bridge users will see a city ban on stopping or standing on pedestrian bridges remain in place after a federal judge dismissed a legal challenge. US District Judge Jennifer Dorsey ruled that the law does not restrict free speech, characterizing the policy as a measure against conduct like loitering and vending.
Why it matters
The ordinance, which has been in effect for three years, aims to keep foot traffic moving by preventing street performers and unlicensed vendors from blocking walkways. The American Civil Liberties Union challenged the law on constitutional grounds, but the case now shifts to a higher court.
Violations of the three-year-old pedestrian bridge ordinance carry a maximum penalty of $1,000 or six months in jail. Despite constitutional challenges, city officials report that no individuals have been arrested for taking photographs under the standing ban.
The players
Jennifer Dorsey
The US District Judge who ruled that the city's pedestrian bridge ordinance does not limit free speech.
American Civil Liberties Union
The organization that challenged the bridge ban on behalf of a musician and a wheelchair user.
Brandon Summers
A musician who has performed for tips and was represented in the lawsuit against the bridge ordinance.
The details
Judge Dorsey found the city law targets specific conduct such as sleeping and performing rather than limiting protected speech. The American Civil Liberties Union, which filed the lawsuit on behalf of a local musician and a wheelchair user, has submitted a notice of appeal. The Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeals is now tasked with determining if the ordinance violates First and Fourteenth Amendment rights.
Timeline
2009: Brandon Summers began performing music for tips.
October 2023: The city bridge ban ordinance took effect.
October 12, 2026: Judge Jennifer Dorsey dismissed the legal challenge against the law.
Beyond the Strip
This ruling upholds a local ordinance by determining it falls outside the restrictions of the First and Fourteenth Amendments. It marks a significant legal validation for city officials who maintain that conduct-based bridge policies are necessary to manage public safety.
Residents and performers should note that the ban on stopping, standing, or vending on pedestrian bridges remains strictly enforced. The potential for a $1,000 fine or jail time remains in effect while the case moves toward appellate review.
The takeaway
The city maintains that pedestrian bridges must remain clear of obstructions to facilitate safe movement for the public. Keep track of future proceedings at the Ninth US Circuit Court of Appeals to see if the legal challenge successfully alters the current ordinance.
Further reading
For more on ongoing legal actions and regulatory changes in the valley, visit the Las Vegas Law section.
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Should local governments be allowed to ban stopping on pedestrian bridges to manage crowds?
