3 rules for unincorporated Oakland County, Michigan.
Verified from official government sources
Oakland County does not issue a county-wide street vendor or peddler permit. Vendor licensing is handled by each of the county's 62 cities, villages, and townships under Michigan's Home Rule City Act (MCL 117) and Township Zoning Act. The Oakland County Health Division does issue the underlying mobile food unit license required for any vendor selling food anywhere in the county.
Where vendors may legally set up in Oakland County is set by each municipality's zoning ordinance, not by the county. Most Oakland County cities limit street vending to commercial zones, special-event corridors, or specific downtown 'social districts' authorized under Michigan's Social District law (MCL 436.1551). Vending on public sidewalks, in residential zones, and within county parks generally requires a separate permit or is prohibited outright.
Mobile food carts, trucks, and trailers operating in Oakland County must be licensed as Mobile Food Establishments (MFEs) or Special Transitory Food Units (STFUs) by the Oakland County Health Division under Michigan's Modified Food Law and the Oakland County Sanitary Code. Carts must meet Michigan Food Code construction standards (NSF-certified equipment, mechanical refrigeration, three-compartment sink or approved alternative, potable water tank, and waste-water tank) and pass an annual inspection.
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