One of Melbourne’s more unusual traditions is under threat following a crackdown on Footscray’s footpath traders.

Elderly Vietnamese-Australian traders have for years spent Saturdays selling their wares on Leeds Street in Footscray’s "Little Saigon", offering such items as home-grown herbs and vegetables, chillies and pot plants.

Footscray's footpath traders are under threat. Credit:Felicity Watson

But Maribyrnong Council has stepped in to end the colourful practice, warning traders they risk $500 fines and having their goods impounded for trading without a permit.

The area is a stone’s throw from where the bustling Little Saigon markets burnt down almost 18 months ago. The council's move has sparked a backlash in a community still coming to terms with the loss of the markets.