LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Digital signs reminding visitors that tipping is not mandatory when watching street performances or taking photos have officially gone live along the Las Vegas Strip.
The signs, which feature Clark County branding, prominently display in bold text on a red background: “When watching performances or taking a photo, Tipping is NOT Required.”
FOX5 first learned of the issue from a viewer who reported it to the Rant and Rave, and has followed the story since, getting answers from local leaders.
MORE ON FOX5: Clark County putting up messages on the Las Vegas Strip about tipping
The displays also include safety guidance for pedestrians, advising: “If you feel harassed, look for a nearby police officer, or call 911.”
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According to Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft, the digital messages began rotating on Strip marquees on Friday, Oct. 16. The initiative aims to inform tourists of their rights along pedestrian walkways and curb aggressive solicitation by street performers and costumed characters.
County says campaign targets harassment, not tips
County officials say they are not against performers receiving tips but are targeting performers who harass visitors or pressure them into believing they must pay. Commissioner Naft said the behavior threatens what he described as the valley’s lifeline, the Strip.
Leslie, a tourist visiting from Kansas City, described an experience with costumed characters on the Strip.
“There was a Woody and a Mickey Mouse, and my brother was taking a photo with them. After the photos were taken, they were like, oh, $10 each. We were already giving them $10, but $10 each was a little stretch.”
Leslie said she knows tipping is not required, but said others may not.
“The showgirls and whoever, like Spiderman, all those people, they aim for the non like Americans or, you know, and try to take advantage of them for sure,” Robert McPherson from New York said.
Licensing rules and enforcement
In Clark County, payment for goods cannot be accepted without a business license, and those with a license cannot operate in public areas.
Naft said the goal is to keep visitors returning to the Strip.
“It negatively impacts the economic lifeblood of not just Clark County, but the entire state tax base is dependent on the Las Vegas Strip,” he said.
Performer Chris J said not all performers are pushy but said those who are create problems for the rest.
“I notice that they’re like, oh, if you don’t tip, they’re going to snap on you. Like, they’re very aggressive about it,” Chris J said.
Visibility of the public service announcement
The county says the PSA will remain up as long as it is helpful. One visitor said she had not seen the message pop up.
“Actually, I’ve never seen a sign, so I don’t even know what signs you’re referring to, but they could do a better job at putting the signs up so that we’ll understand what it is,” she said.
The county says Metro Police and its business licensing enforcement division are on the Strip to monitor these incidents.
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