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πŸ” Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors/Vending Zones

Vending Zones: El Monte vs Santa Monica

How do vending zones rules compare between El Monte, CA and Santa Monica, CA?

El Monte has fewer restrictions than Santa Monica.

El Monte, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Food truck vending in El Monte is regulated by zoning. California SB 972 protects sidewalk vending rights with reasonable restrictions. Location and time restrictions apply per the zoning code.

View full El Monte rules β†’

Santa Monica, CA

Los Angeles County

Heavy Restrictions

Vending in Santa Monica is restricted in high-traffic areas. All vending is prohibited on the Santa Monica Pier except the existing licensed cart program. Sidewalk vendors need a business license and vending permit. Safety setbacks enforced.

View full Santa Monica rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEl MonteSanta Monica
ZoningLocation restrictions apply-
State LawSB 972 sidewalk vending rights-
Specific PlansDowntown Main Street area regulated-
HoursPer business district regulations-
Pier-Vending prohibited (except licensed carts)
Permit-Business license + vending permit
High-Traffic Areas-Limited for safety
Code-SMMC Ch. 6.36

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

El Monte FAQ

Where can food trucks park?

Only in designated vending zones or with private property owner permission. Check El Monte zoning map for approved locations.

How close to restaurants can trucks park?

Most cities require 50 to 200 feet distance from brick-and-mortar restaurants.

Santa Monica FAQ

Where can food trucks park?

Only in designated vending zones or with private property owner permission. Check Santa Monica zoning map for approved locations.

How close to restaurants can trucks park?

Most cities require 50 to 200 feet distance from brick-and-mortar restaurants.

Compare other topics

See how El Monte and Santa Monica compare on other ordinance categories.

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