Gastonia, NC Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Sidewalk & Mobile Vending (2026)

Gastonia City Code § 8-400 makes it unlawful to sell or offer for sale any food, beverage, merchandise, or anything else on a street, sidewalk, public right-of-way, or other city-owned property within the central municipal services district without first securing a downtown street vendor permit, which must be displayed in a conspicuous location at all times of operation. News vending machines are exempt. A "stand" under the article means a pushcart, counter, stall or other facility capable of being easily removed at the end of each day, and "food" is limited to solid food and nonalcoholic beverages sold by the piece or individual serving, which must comply with Gaston County Department of Health rules.

Applicants must submit their name and address, a description of the food or merchandise, a photo of the stand, three recent photographs of anyone who will sell at the stand, proof of insurance, an indemnity statement, copies of state and county health permits, and a non-refundable application fee. The city manager's designated department decides whether to issue or deny within 45 days of a complete application, and permits are non-transferable, valid up to one year, and capped at three per person. Vendors cannot operate during special events like street festivals or the Fourth of July.