Berkeley allows sidewalk vending citywide under SB 946 with time, place, and manner rules, and permits food trucks in commercial zones with Use Permit at regular locations.
California SB 946 (2018) preempts local bans on sidewalk vending, requiring cities to allow both stationary and roaming vendors subject only to health, safety, and public welfare regulations. Berkeley Municipal Code Chapter 9.48 regulates sidewalk vending requiring a city vending permit, Alameda County health permit for food, CDTFA sales tax permit, and business license. Restrictions include maintaining 4-foot clear sidewalk for ADA, 18 inches from curb, no vending within 15 feet of transit stops or fire hydrants, and compliance with park and farmers market rules. Food trucks parked on public streets must comply with parking time limits and cannot block visibility. Regular food truck locations in commercial zones (C-1, C-N, C-DMU) generally require Use Permit approval with neighbor notice. Events like Off the Grid and Berkeley Kite Festival provide organized venues.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Alameda County.
See how other cities in Alameda County handle vending zones.
See how Berkeley's vending zones rules stack up against other locations.
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