Costa Mesa, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Vending Zones (2026)

Costa Mesa does not designate formal food truck vending zones but regulates mobile food vendors through zoning, right-of-way, and nuisance ordinances. Food trucks may operate on private commercial or industrial property with the property owner's written consent, provided the activity does not violate the property's zoning conditions or reduce required parking below minimum standards. Trucks should not locate in required fire lanes, ADA-accessible parking spaces, or loading zones. Food trucks may not operate on residential streets or within residential zoning districts without a special event permit. Operations within 500 feet of schools during school hours may face additional restrictions under California Education Code. Vending on public sidewalks and rights-of-way is subject to encroachment and obstruction rules under Title 12 of the Costa Mesa Municipal Code. The city's SB 946 compliance allows sidewalk vending with appropriate permits, but food vendors on sidewalks must still meet OCHCA requirements and may not obstruct pedestrian passage. The 19th Street and Triangle Square commercial areas see regular food truck activity on private lots. Food truck gatherings or multi-truck events on private property may require a temporary use permit from the Planning Division if they exceed the scope of the property's existing land use approvals.