Vendor Permits: Federal Way vs Seattle
How do vendor permits rules compare between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA?
Federal Way and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
Federal Way, WA
King County
Mobile food and retail vendors operating in Federal Way must complete a Mobile Food or Retail Vendor Supplemental Checklist with their City Business License under FWRC 19.290. Use of public right-of-way (street or sidewalk) requires a Right-of-Way Activity Permit under FWRC 4.30.050.
View full Federal Way rules →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle requires Street Use permits from SDOT for vending in public rights-of-way. Six types of vending permits are available depending on location and timing. Only food, beverages, and cut flowers may be sold in public spaces. Vendors must also hold a business license and may need King County Health permits. Approval takes approximately 8 weeks.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Federal Way | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Land Use Code | FWRC 19.290 | - |
| Right-of-Way Permit | FWRC 4.30.050 | - |
| Business Registration | FWRC 12.05 | - |
| Temporary License | Required for <90 days operation | - |
| Permit Types | - | 6 types available from SDOT |
| Allowed Products | - | Food, beverages, and cut flowers only |
| Approval Time | - | Approximately 8 weeks |
| Additional Permits | - | Business license, Fire Dept, KC Health |
| Fee Schedule | - | Published annually by SDOT |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Federal Way FAQ
Do food trucks need a permit in Federal Way?
Yes — mobile food vendors need a City of Federal Way business license, must complete the Mobile Food/Retail Vendor Supplemental Checklist, and must comply with FWRC 19.290. Vendors on public streets or sidewalks also need a Right-of-Way Activity Permit under FWRC 4.30.050.
Can I vend at a special event without a permanent license?
Short-term vending may qualify for a Temporary Business License (operations of 90 days or fewer in a 365-day window). The host event's own permit may also cover participating vendors — confirm with city Community Development.
Seattle FAQ
What can I sell as a street vendor in Seattle?
Only food, beverages, and cut flowers may be sold in public rights-of-way under Seattle's vending program. Other merchandise requires different permit types or private property locations.
How long does it take to get a Seattle vending permit?
Expect approximately 8 weeks for permit approval from the date of submitting a complete application to SDOT.
Compare other topics
See how Federal Way and Seattle compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool