Vendor Permits: Altadena vs Los Angeles
How do vendor permits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Los Angeles, CA?
Altadena and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County's Sidewalk Vending Ordinance (adopted February 2024, effective August 2024) requires all vendors in unincorporated areas to register with the Department of Economic Opportunity for a Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate (SVRC).
View full Altadena rules →Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Under LAMC §42.13 and California SB 946 (Safe Sidewalk Vending Act), anyone selling food or merchandise on LA sidewalks or in city parks must obtain a Sidewalk & Park Vending Permit from the Bureau of Street Services (StreetsLA). SB 946 decriminalized street vending statewide in 2018, limiting cities to health-safety-welfare regulations only. Permits are non-transferable and must be displayed while vending.
View full Los Angeles rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Los Angeles |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinance | Feb 2024, effective Aug 2024 | - |
| Permit | SVRC from DEO | - |
| First Year Fee | Waived | - |
| Food Permit | CMFO – 75% discount | - |
| Contact | (844) 432-4900 | - |
| Code | - | LAMC §42.13 |
| State Law | - | SB 946 (2018) |
| Administrator | - | StreetsLA |
| First Violation | - | Written warning only |
| Max Fine | - | $500 (third offense) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
How do I get a vending permit in unincorporated LA County?
Apply for a Sidewalk Vending Registration Certificate from the LA County Department of Economic Opportunity. Visit the East LA Entrepreneur Center at 4716 E Cesar E Chavez Ave or call (844) 432-4900.
Do I need a health permit to sell food on the sidewalk?
Yes. Food vendors need a Compact Mobile Food Operation (CMFO) permit from the LA County Department of Public Health in addition to the SVRC. Reduced permit rates of up to 75% off are available.
Los Angeles FAQ
Do I need a permit to sell food on LA sidewalks?
Yes. You need both a Sidewalk & Park Vending Permit from StreetsLA under LAMC §42.13 and a County Health Permit for food handling. The permit must be visibly displayed while vending.
Can I go to jail for street vending without a permit in LA?
No. Under California SB 946, cities cannot impose criminal penalties for unpermitted sidewalk vending. The first violation is a written warning; subsequent violations are administrative fines up to $500.
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