Decatur, AL Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Vending Zones (2026)

Section 25-197 of the Decatur City Code lists three places where mobile food vending sites can operate, and caterers and jobsite units are exempt. First, public or semipublic property designated by the building director or a representative, or a temporarily closed public right-of-way during a special event. Sites outside city parks need planning department approval with concurrence from the building, revenue, fire and police departments. Sites in the public space usage area set by city council Resolution 13-338 go to the public space usage committee, and sites inside a city park, off any public right-of-way, go to the parks and recreation department.

Second, private property in any zone other than residential, at the request of the business owner. The intent is to allow vending only when it is clearly ancillary to the business at that location. The planning department must approve and notify the other departments at least 48 hours before operations begin, and the site can run weekly, monthly or yearly with the same or fewer business hours.

Third, special mobile food vending areas: public property outside the parks department's control, outlined on a map kept on file with the planning department. Each area sets a specified number of sites. Units request approval at least 48 hours ahead with proof of all permits and licenses, and no unit can operate on any special-area site more than four days out of seven. A request reserves the site, and vendors can wait-list, with each approval lasting no more than fourteen days (eight days of operation). Boundary changes go from the technical review committee to the planning commission, then to the city council after a public hearing.

Section 25-198 adds placement limits. A unit must sit at least 100 feet from the closest exterior wall of a restaurant, cafe, deli or cafeteria, cannot occupy a required setback or required parking, and cannot block the exit or entrance of an operating building. Units in street parking must serve from the curb side.