Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do vending zones rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View and Sunnyvale 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 →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
Sunnyvale permits food truck and sidewalk vending in commercial and industrial zones and limits operations near schools, parks, and residences under SMC Title 19 and SB 946.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Best zones | - | Commercial and industrial |
| Sidewalk vending | - | Permit per SB 946 |
| School buffer | - | Allowed with limits |
| Parks vending | - | Concession agreement required |
| Farmers markets | - | Separate permit |
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.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can a taco truck park in a residential neighborhood?
Generally no for long-term stationary operations. Short stops may be allowed consistent with parking rules.
Can I vend at a public park?
Only under a concession agreement with Parks and Recreation or as part of a permitted event.
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