‘Tipping is not required’ signs added to Las Vegas Strip after showgirl impersonator brawl over $20

LAS VEGAS (KVVU/Gray News) — Digital signs informing visitors that tipping is not mandatory when it comes to street performers have been added to 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.”

Clark County Commissioner Michael Naft said the digital messages began rotating on Strip marquees last Friday.

The initiative aims to inform tourists of their rights along pedestrian walkways and curb aggressive solicitation by street performers and costumed characters.

Earlier this month, police reported two women dressed as showgirls were arrested after a fight along the Vegas Strip left a tourist injured over a $20 tip.

Officials said the newly added displays include safety guidance for pedestrians, advising: “If you feel harassed, look for a nearby police officer, or call 911.”

According to the police report, one of the showgirls involved in the brawl followed the North Carolina visitors and demanded $60 and $180 before hitting one of them on the head with her high-heeled boot.

County officials noted they are not against performers receiving tips but are targeting performers who harass visitors or pressure them into believing they must pay.

Naft said the behavior threatens the valley’s lifeline, tourism on the Strip.

Leslie, a tourist visiting from Kansas City, described an experience with costumed characters during her visit to Las Vegas.

“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, $10 each. We were already giving them $10, but $10 each was a little stretch.”

Leslie said she knows tipping is not required but that others may not.

“The showgirls and whoever, like Spider-Man, all those people, they aim for the non-Americans to take advantage of them for sure,” Robert McPherson, who was visiting from New York, added.

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.

County officials said the PSA will remain up as long as it is helpful, adding that Las Vegas police and the business licensing enforcement division are continuing to monitor.