OXFORD – Selectmen opted to table action on a proposed peddler’s ordinance Thursday until police Chief John Tibbetts can review it.

The decision came after some selectmen raised concerns about the extent of the ordinance. The Planning Board previously recommended that selectmen approve the ordinance for a public hearing before sending it to a vote at the June town meeting.

“I’d like to see it killed right here,” said Selectman Roger Jackson. “It stymies free enterprise.”

The purpose of the ordinance is “to define, regulate, and license peddlers.” It defines peddlers as people or organizations with no established place of business in the town who sell goods from place to place or in public locations. It exempts “bona fide, charitable, service, religious, or municipal organizations or agencies located within the Town of Oxford.”

The ordinance was suggested after some local businesses complained that roadside vendors were undercutting town businesses and did not have to pay local taxes or apply for licenses.

Peddlers would be required to obtain a license from the town prior to conducting business. The license requirements include a photograph, a statement of whether the applicant has been convicted of a crime or violation of a municipal ordinance, two references from Oxford property owners or other evidence of good standing, and a $50 fee for police investigation costs.

The ordinance requires the police chief to investigate an applicant and determine if the town should issue a license. A person can appeal a license denial to selectmen, and a license can be revoked for conviction of a crime, violation of the ordinance, misrepresentation in the application or business, or a breach of public health and safety.

Jackson said he considered the measure overregulation by the town and protectionism of a small number of businesses. He said some residents told him they oppose the ordinance.

Selectman Scott Owens said the vendors presented a safety hazard along heavily-traveled Route 26.

“I think every one of these people that are set up on the side of the road are a menace to traffic,” he said.

Chairman Floyd Thayer said he agreed that traffic was an issue, but wondered if the ordinance might extend beyond roadside vendors to people renting tables in flea markets.

Town Manager Michael Chammings said the ordinance would not affect flea markets.