Dade City, FL Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Sidewalk & Mobile Vending (2026)

Article VI of Chapter 26 of the Dade City Code of Ordinances governs mobile street vending inside the Dade City, Pasco County, Florida city limits. Sec. 26-231(b) defines a 'vendor cart/stand' as a structure mounted on at least two wheels that is not propelled by an internal combustion engine, electric motor or similar device, so the article covers hand-propelled carts and stands, not motorized food trucks. Before a vendor sets up, Sec. 26-232 requires a solicitor's permit issued by the Dade City clerk's office, backed by state tax certificates, department of agriculture licenses, state or county health certificates for food and beverage sales, city and county occupational license applications, fictitious name registration and a federal ID or Social Security number.

Once permitted, Sec. 26-233 sets the operating standards: carts must clear litter and debris after use, cannot block pedestrian or vehicle flow, must sit a minimum of 18 inches from the back of the curb while leaving a six-foot-wide clear path on the sidewalk, and cannot be positioned within five feet of a crosswalk or fire hydrant. Carts also cannot block business entrances, building doors or emergency exits, cannot sell alcoholic beverages, and must display all required licenses and permits in plain view. or left in place after the close of business.

The city manager can grant exceptions to the placement and hours rules for specific parades, events and festivals under subsections (c) and (h). Sec. 26-235 lets the city manager revoke a vending permit after notice and hearing for fraud, misrepresentation, any violation of the article, a disqualifying conviction, or conduct that breaches the peace or menaces public safety.