Carlsbad, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

for vending" to obtain a vending equipment permit "for each conveyance prior to use on any public street, sidewalk or right-of-way," issued by the Finance Director and valid for one calendar year. The application must include government ID, a description of the vehicle including license number and signage, the goods to be sold, proposed hours, days and route, proof of insurance, a California seller's permit listing Carlsbad as a location, and a San Diego County health certificate and food handlers card. only at the request of a bona fide purchaser and may not park or stand for longer than 60 minutes" in one place, and cannot vend within 100 feet of another food truck, within 25 feet of a fire hydrant, driveway, or outdoor dining area, along any street posted above 25 mph, within 500 feet of a permitted special event, or within a half mile of a school while children are arriving, leaving, or on recess.

Ice cream trucks need "WARNING CHILDREN CROSSING" signs at least 12 by 48 inches on front and rear, and no food truck may use loudspeakers, bells, chimes, or other noisemaking devices while vending, or run any lights beyond DOT-approved vehicle lighting.