San Jose, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Sidewalk & Mobile Vending (2026)

San Jose regulates sidewalk vending through SJMC Chapter 6.54 (Peddler Permit Ordinance) in compliance with California SB 946 (Safe Sidewalk Vending Act of 2018). Everyone selling on sidewalks or other public property must obtain a permit from the San Jose Police Department. Vendors operating for more than 2 hours at a single location are classified as stationary vendors and need an additional Administrative Permit from the San Jose Planning Department under SJMC §20.80.820. Food vendors must also hold a valid permit from the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health. SB 946 decriminalized sidewalk vending statewide and limits municipal regulation to health, safety, and welfare concerns. The city cannot impose criminal penalties for unpermitted vending under SB 946. Permit processing takes 2-6 weeks depending on type, with food vendor permits taking longer due to health department inspections. Fresh fruit and vegetable vendors follow a separate checklist under §20.80.820. The SJPD Permits Unit processes all initial vendor permit applications.