Berkeley vs Hayward
How do food truck permits rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Hayward has fewer restrictions than Berkeley.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Berkeley food trucks need a Mobile Food Facility permit from Alameda County Environmental Health, a city business license, and must follow CA Retail Food Code and SB 946 sidewalk vending law.
View full Berkeley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Food trucks operating in Hayward require a city business license, Alameda County Environmental Health Mobile Food Facility permit, and compliance with zoning location rules. SB 946 limits sidewalk vendor restrictions.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Health permit | Alameda County EH | - |
| Business license | Berkeley Finance | - |
| Zoning | Commercial/industrial | - |
| School buffer | 200 feet | - |
| State law | SB 946 | - |
| City license | - | Business license required |
| County permit | - | MFF Environmental Health |
| Commissary | - | Required agreement |
| SB 946 | - | Limits sidewalk vendor rules |
| Restaurant buffer | - | 50 ft typical |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
Can a food truck park on any street?
No, Berkeley zoning restricts locations; designated vending zones and permitted events allow street operation.
Do I need a commissary?
Yes, California Retail Food Code requires trucks to return to a permitted commissary each operating day.
Hayward FAQ
How do I start a food truck in Hayward?
Get a Hayward business license, Alameda County MFF permit, DMV commercial registration, and a commissary agreement before operating.
Can I park in front of any restaurant?
No, most food truck rules require a buffer from brick-and-mortar restaurants and property owner permission.
Compare other topics
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