New York, NY Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Sidewalk & Mobile Vending (2026)
Key Facts
- Max cart footprint
- 8 linear feet along the curb
- Max depth from curb
- 3 feet toward property line
- Clear path required
- 12-foot clear pedestrian path
- Display height cap
- 5 feet maximum
- First violation fine
- $25, up to $250 repeat
Summary
New York City limits general-vendor pushcarts to 8 linear feet along the curb, 3 feet toward the property line, and a 5-foot display height, while requiring a 12-foot clear pedestrian path on the sidewalk.
No general vendor shall occupy more than eight linear feet of public space parallel to the curb in the operation of a vending business and, in addition, no general vendor operating any vending business on any sidewalk shall occupy more than three linear feet to be measured from the curb toward the property line.
Full Breakdown
New York City Administrative Code § 20-465 bars general vendors from setting up unless the sidewalk has a 12-foot clear pedestrian path measured from the property line to any obstruction. Carts and stands can occupy no more than 8 linear feet parallel to the curb and no more than 3 feet from the curb toward the property line, must sit flush against the curb, cannot touch or lean on any building, lamp post, hydrant or bus shelter, and cannot use electricity or gas-powered equipment. Displays are capped at 5 feet high. The Department of Consumer and Worker Protection and NYPD enforce these limits against licensed general vendors citywide.
Violations & Fines
First placement violation costs $25, rising to $50, $100, then $250 for repeat offenses within 2 years; unlicensed vending itself draws a separate $250 fine plus vehicle seizure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big can a general vendor's cart be in NYC?
Can a vending cart touch a building or lamp post?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New York
New York rules heatmap·Compare New York to another location·View the New York food trucks & mobile vendors overview
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