Sidewalk Vending FAQs

Translated FAQs are available: Spanish | Khmer | Tagalog

Updated as of 8/29/24

 
  • Why did Long Beach need to create a sidewalk vending ordinance in the first place? Why not just leave things alone?

    The sidewalk vending ordinance was created to provide a clear path for prospective sidewalk vendors to conduct business in Long Beach safely and legally. We were able to put the ordinance into place following recent State legislation including California's Safe Sidewalk Vending Act (SB 946). The City wants to see businesses in Long Beach succeed while safeguarding public health, safety, and accessibility.  The new ordinance also aligns with broader efforts to promote economic development and support small businesses within the community.

  • What kinds of licensing, permits, and fees are required for a sidewalk vendor?

    Sidewalk vendors in Long Beach are required to obtain a business license ($300), a sidewalk vending permit (issued at the same time as the license), and if selling food, a health permit from the Long Beach Health Department. The fees associated with a health permit varies depending on the type of food and food preparation necessary to vend the food. Furthermore, vendors may need to pay plan check fees for health permit approval, ensuring compliance with State health and safety regulations, including specific cart requirements. All vendors are required to acquire insurance. These measures collectively aim to uphold State standards to prevent foodborne illnesses and promote food safety practices within the sidewalk vending industry while supporting the growth and success of small businesses in Long Beach.

  • I am a potential sidewalk vendor and I’m confused about what I need to do. Who can help me?

    More information about the program, including how to apply for a sidewalk vendors business license and how to obtain a health permit from the Long Beach Health Department, is available at longbeach.gov/sidewalkvending. Additionally, the Health Department can be reached at 562.570.4132 for questions on health permits, and the Financial Management Department can be reached at 562.570.6211 for questions on business licenses.

    The City's Inclusive Business Navigators program is another resource; it offers free business coaching and advising services to help sidewalk vendors navigate the process to obtain necessary permits. People can connect with Inclusive Business Navigators at longbeach.gov/biznavigators, or contact BizCare for a direct referral by calling 562.570.4BIZ (4249) or 4Biz@longbeach.gov. Business assistance is available in English, Spanish, Khmer, and other languages upon request .

  • It’s going to cost me a lot of money to be a sidewalk vendor. How can any small business afford all the fees and costs?

    We understand the concerns regarding the costs associated with sidewalk vending. The City has implemented the Sidewalk to Success Program to provide financial assistance and support to sidewalk vendors during the first year of the new ordinance. This program, funded by the Long Beach Recovery Act, covers the costs of business licenses, health permits, and offers reimbursements up to $450 for general liability insurance coverage expenses through February 26, 2025. We’re excited about this opportunity to support small business owners.

    •As part of phase two of this program, the City has launched a free food vending cart program that will provide up to 40 free food vending carts to sidewalk vendors who apply and meet eligibility requirements; actual carts available will depend on the type of carts and program participation. Details on eligibility and how to apply is available on the free food vending carts application page.

  • Why does Long Beach require sidewalk vendors to use carts with specific equipment like refrigerators, freezers, and sinks?

    Food carts must have specific food safety equipment outlined in the State’s Health and Safety Code. The equipment requirements for sidewalk vending carts, such as refrigerators, freezers and sinks, are designed to ensure the prevention of foodborne illnesses. We are not stricter than the State; rather, these rules are necessary to remain in compliance with State health and safety regulations.

  • What kinds of health permits or fees related to a cart does a sidewalk vendor have to pay? Why is this even necessary?

    State law requires that all vendors selling food must submit plans for approval and obtain a health permit to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. These fees are necessary to cover the costs associated with administering of the program, conducting routine and follow-up inspections, and investigating complaints and foodborne illnesses reports.

  • How much does it cost for a typical food cart? What if a sidewalk vendor can’t afford to buy a cart that meets the health code requirements?

    Based on our initial assessments, cart costs can range from $5000 – $25,000.  The cost of a food cart can vary significantly based on the type of food a vendor is selling.  Variables such as the menu, the size of the food operation, equipment, materials, and customization will determine the cost of a vendor’s desired cart.  For example, for a vendor selling fruits, a food cart with a cooler might cost around $10,000; for a vendor selling tamales, a food cart might cost around $7,500. 

    We recognize that many sidewalk vendors are small businesses who may need financial support. The City of Long Beach has introduced the Sidewalk to Success Program. This program aims to provide financial assistance to sidewalk vendors during the first year of the ordinance. As part of phase two of this program, the City has launched a free food vending cart program that will provide up to 40 free food vending carts to sidewalk vendors who apply and meet eligibility requirements; actual carts available will depend on the type of carts and program participation. Details on eligibility and how to apply is available on the free food vending carts application page.

  • If I am a sidewalk vendor, where am I allowed to set up?

    Sidewalk vendors are allowed throughout the City.  When we created the ordinance, we looked at how to create as many options as possible while also protecting pedestrian traffic, public safety, and accessibility.  Visit longbeach.gov/sidewalkvending for detailed information or call Business License at 562.570.6211

  • I’m hearing mixed messages – one is that the City is going to do education first before any enforcement, and another that health codes will continue to be enforced. Which is it? Is enforcement in effect now or later?

    The City is indeed prioritizing education and outreach to sidewalk vendors as part of our approach to implementing the new sidewalk vending ordinance. Our goal is to ensure that sidewalk vendors are fully informed about the requirements and have the resources they need to comply. The City will work with vendors for several months to provide the updated licensing and permitting requirements and operational rules, before enforcement of these rules take place. Even after enforcement begins, the City will take an education-first approach wherever possible.

    However, it's important to note that while the ordinance is new, health code requirements, including having a health permit, have always been in place to safeguard public health and safety. Enforcement of these health codes may continue as they did before the ordinance was established. This means that violations of health codes, such as operating without a health permit, improper food handling or hygiene practices, may be enforced. Enforcement of the Health and Safety regulations ensures the safety of our residents and visitors. This is equally true of brick-and-mortar restaurants and other food facilities.

    Our aim is to strike a balance between supporting sidewalk vendors in their transition to compliance and ensuring that public health standards are upheld. Enforcement may take place for significant public health risk or safety concerns.