Sidewalk food vending is out of control in California; One city is about to implement new rules
In a landmark decision during its meeting on January 23, 2024, the Long Beach City Council voted unanimously, 9 to 0, to approve a new sidewalk vending ordinance aimed at fostering entrepreneurial and business development opportunities within the city.
The ordinance is designed to strike a balance between supporting local businesses and ensuring public health, safety, and ADA accessibility.
Scheduled to go into effect on February 23, 2024, the ordinance aligns with California's Safe Sidewalk Vending Act (SB 946), which decriminalized sidewalk vending across the state.
Long Beach's ordinance, developed after extensive outreach following the direction of the City Council, offers a clear framework for individuals interested in engaging in sidewalk vending, whether through food carts or other merchandise.
Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson emphasized the importance of expanding business opportunities while prioritizing public health and safety.
"As we grow Long Beach, it’s imperative to find ways to expand business opportunities in the city. This new ordinance will open a new avenue of opportunities for small businesses while prioritizing public health, accessibility, and safety," said Mayor Richardson.
The ordinance covers various aspects, including licensing, permitting, fees, food safety regulations, and considerations for placement, size, and accessibility. Key details of the ordinance include:
Licensing, Permitting, and Fees:
- A business license and sidewalk vending permit are required for all vendors.
- Most food vendors will need a City Health Permit, with fees varying based on the type of food business.
- Insurance with a $1 million policy limit is mandatory.
- The Long Beach Recovery Act will fund a Sidewalk Vending Program to offset start-up costs during the first year.
Food Safety Regulations:
- Food vendors must operate in a way that adheres to proper food safety rules.
- Specific requirements are outlined for different types of food carts.
Placement, Size, and Accessibility Considerations:
- Regulations ensure the protection of sidewalk right-of-way for pedestrians and ADA accessibility.
- Vendors are restricted from certain areas, such as school grounds during school hours, residential zones, and other specified locations.
- Specific clearance requirements for sidewalk vendors are outlined.
Enforcement:
- The City will initially focus on educating vendors about the new requirements before strict enforcement.
- Violations may lead to fines, revocation of permits, or impoundment of equipment and merchandise in significant circumstances.
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