Santa Monica, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Sidewalk & Mobile Vending (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit display
- Required at all times while on public property
- Open flame
- Prohibited for sidewalk vendors
- Trash container
- Must be maintained on vendor's person, cart, or vehicle
- Rentals
- Sidewalk vendors may only sell: renting goods is prohibited
- Equipment attachment
- Cannot touch, lean against, or affix to any building or street structure
Summary
Sidewalk vendors must display their permit at all times, comply with the City's noise ordinance, keep their area litter-free with an on-hand trash container, and are prohibited from using open flames, leaning equipment against street furniture, or displaying goods not immediately for sale.
§ 6.36.050(a) A vendor shall: (1) Prominently display the vendor's vending permit at all times while on public property; (2) Maintain noise levels in compliance with Chapters 4.12 and 6.116 of this Code; (3) Keep the vendor's vending area litter free by removing litter caused by the vended products off of public or private property; and (4) Maintain a trash container in or on the vendor's person, cart, or vehicle.
(d) In addition to the prohibitions set forth in subsection (b) above, a sidewalk vendor shall not: (1) Vend services or merchandise for rent to customers; (2) Display merchandise or food that is not available for immediate sale; (3) Use an open flame; or (4) Place or maintain vending equipment or materials in a manner that touches, leans against or is affixed to any building or structure including, but not limited to, a lamppost, parking meter, mailbox, traffic signal, fire hydrant, bench, bus shelter, newsstand, trashcan, or traffic barriers.
Full Breakdown
Vendors of any type are prohibited from using City or private electrical outlets without authorization, blocking pedestrian passage, or making false statements while vending. Sidewalk vendors specifically may only sell goods (not rent them), cannot use open flames, and cannot affix their equipment to lampposts, benches, fire hydrants, traffic signals, mailboxes, bus shelters, newsstands, trashcans, or any other structure. Vehicle vendors may not use adjacent sidewalk or parkway space for merchandise display.
Violations & Fines
Violations are subject to administrative citation under Chapter 1.09. Non-sidewalk vendors additionally face infraction fines up to $250 or misdemeanor fines up to $500 plus up to 6 months jail. Impoundment of goods is also authorized for unpermitted or abandoned items.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plug my cart into a city outlet to keep food warm?
Can I use a portable propane burner or grill?
Can I chain my cart to a lamppost at the end of the day?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Monica
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