Common Ground Code of Conduct

Common Ground Markets at 550 Somerset is a shared space — for vendors, shoppers, neighbors, and everyone passing through from the BeltLine. This code of conduct exists to make sure it stays a place people want to be.

For Everyone

Treat vendors, staff, and fellow visitors with basic respect. Harassment, intimidation, discriminatory language, or aggressive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated. This is a zero-tolerance policy. If Market Management or security asks you to leave, you leave.

Keep the space clean. Use the provided waste and recycling stations. If you bring it in, take it out or dispose of it properly.

Smoking, vaping, and the use of controlled substances are prohibited anywhere on the Common Ground premises. Visible intoxication is grounds for immediate removal.

Firearms and weapons are not permitted on the property, with the sole exception of on-duty law enforcement officers.

Theft, vandalism, or destruction of vendor or Common Ground property will be reported to Atlanta Police and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Photography and video for personal, non-commercial use are welcome. If you're shooting for commercial or media purposes, please contact us for approval first.

For Vendors

You represent Common Ground every time you're in your stall. Be professional, be present, and be someone shoppers want to come back to.

You and your staff must follow all vendor policies and procedures outlined in your Vendor Agreement. You are responsible for the conduct of every person working your stall.

Disputes between vendors are handled by Market Management — not on the market floor. If you have an issue with another vendor, bring it to us privately. Public confrontations disrupt the market for everyone and will be treated as a conduct violation.

Do not solicit customers for non-market business, distribute materials unrelated to your products, or engage in political campaigning of any kind on the premises.

For Visitors with Dogs

Well-behaved dogs are welcome on a short, non-expandable leash held by an adult at all times. Dogs must be kept away from all food products, produce, and vendor displays. Aggressive behavior, excessive barking, or growling means you'll be asked to remove your dog. Clean up after your pet — bags are available at the information desk. Any vendor product damaged by a pet must be purchased by the owner. Market Management may ask any dog to be removed at any time, for any reason.

Enforcement

Market Management and on-site security have final authority over all conduct matters. Violations may result in a verbal warning, written warning, removal from the premises, or a permanent ban, depending on severity. For vendors, conduct violations follow the same progressive enforcement outlined in the Vendor Policies and Procedures and may result in loss of your stall.

If you witness a violation or feel unsafe at any time, find a member of our staff or security team immediately, or use the Contact button above.