Mountain View vs San Jose
How do vending zones rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Food trucks in Mountain View may operate in commercial and industrial zones with property owner consent. Castro Street downtown restricts vending to special events. Sidewalk vendors are protected by SB 946 statewide.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
San Jose regulates mobile vending locations through its zoning code (SJMC Title 20) and business licensing provisions. Food trucks and mobile vendors may operate in commercial and industrial zones and at approved special event locations. The City has established designated vending areas in downtown San Jose and near major employment centers. Vendors must not block pedestrian access, fire hydrants, or emergency access routes. California's Safe Sidewalk Vending Act (SB 946) limits the City's ability to ban sidewalk vending outright.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed zones | Commercial and industrial | - |
| Residential limits | Private events only | - |
| Castro Street | Special events only | - |
| Sidewalk vendor law | SB 946 statewide | - |
| Special event buffer | 100 feet | - |
| State Law | - | SB 946 Safe Sidewalk Vending Act |
| Zones | - | Commercial and industrial zones permitted |
| Downtown | - | Designated vending areas in downtown SJ |
| Farmers Market | - | Restrictions within 500 ft of certified markets |
| Access | - | Cannot block pedestrian paths or emergency access |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I run a food truck in my neighborhood?
Residential zones allow food trucks only for private catered events. Regular operation on residential streets is not permitted and neighbors may complain under parking and nuisance rules.
Where can sidewalk vendors operate?
SB 946 permits sidewalk vending in most public areas statewide. Vendors must maintain ADA clearances and follow Mountain View time/place/manner rules plus have a Sidewalk Vending Permit.
San Jose FAQ
Can I set up a food cart on a San Jose sidewalk?
Under California's SB 946, sidewalk vending is generally allowed but subject to reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. You must obtain required health permits and a business tax certificate.
Are there designated food truck zones in San Jose?
Yes, the City has established designated vending areas in downtown and near major employment centers. Check with the City's Planning Division for approved locations.
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