The second week of October is well underway, and the Rockville Spirit Halloween store has yet to open at Congressional Plaza. In a world where Pumpkin Spice lattes go on sale in August, and most Spirit Halloween locations open shortly thereafter, the sight of a shuttered Spirit store in October is, well, downright spooky. An explanation has now surfaced in the form of a sign on the front doors at 1683 Rockville Pike.
"We are awaiting legal permits to operate," the sign states. "We apologize for the inconvenience. This will hopefully be resolved by next week." Why the permits are allegedly being held up is not disclosed, but it is a very costly delay for the store, as it has now lost over 50% of its operating season. That is quite a financial blow, and an unexpected boon for other stores in Rockville that carry costumes, props, and animatronics. An opening next week would give this Spirit store less than two weeks of prime Halloween sales time.
This should be a lesson to the operators, you must follow the occupancy policies governing your permitted use to the fullest for the health and safety of your employees and customers. Trying to skirt the process and not fulfilling these items will get you shut down. It's as simple as that, and all businesses must comply. Let's not try and blame "the government" here.
ReplyDeleteUnless you're a business that hires illegal immigrants, then it wouldn't matter.
ReplyDeletePermitting in Rockville has been a nightmare for at least 15 years. It’s hurt businesses trying to open in the past. So while they may not have planned far enough ahead, I’d be surprised if the city is not part of the problem.
ReplyDeleteNot the case and not true at all. Contractors and builders would much rather go through the simple process of the "City of Rockville" as opposed to that of MoCo. Try asking a verifiable, legitimate builder and they will tell you so.
DeleteReal reason: the proper palms were not greased.
ReplyDeletePer the online permitting reports of the City of Rockville a plumbing related permit has been issued as of 9/10/2025.
ReplyDeleteThey'll pack up unsold stuff and sell it again next year.
ReplyDeleteBut they really missed a big part of the official Spooky Season. People have had their Halloween decor up for awhile now. And folks buy costumes in advance.