Houston regulates street vendors under Chapter 22 (Street Vendors), which requires a permit and a $10,000 surety bond for vendors operating from vehicles on public streets. Food truck parking locations are subject to general parking rules and property owner consent.
Under Houston Code Chapter 22, Art. I and III, any vendor selling from a vehicle on public streets must obtain a street vendor permit and post a $10,000 surety bond. The bond must remain in force for the entire permit duration and two years after. Food trucks operating on private property need the property owner's consent but do not need a street vendor permit (they still need the mobile food unit medallion). Houston does not have formally designated food truck zones or food truck parks established by ordinance, though numerous private food truck parks have emerged across the city. Since Houston has no zoning, food trucks can potentially operate in any area as long as they have proper permits and do not violate parking, noise, or other city ordinances. Some management districts have established their own vendor guidelines.
Operating as a street vendor without a permit or surety bond is a violation of Chapter 22. Fines and permit revocation may apply.
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