Street vending cart rules in Los Angeles, CA — also called pushcart, food cart, or sidewalk vendor regulations — set where mobile vendors can operate and what permits they need.
LA sidewalk vending carts must be non-motorized conveyances (pushcarts, pedal-driven carts, wagons, stands) under LAMC §42.13. Food carts must comply with LA County Department of Public Health requirements including approved food handling surfaces, handwashing stations, and waste receptacles. Carts may not be left unattended on public sidewalks overnight.
Under LAMC §42.13, sidewalk vendors must use non-motorized conveyances such as pushcarts, stands, displays, pedal-driven carts, wagons, showcases, or racks. Motorized vehicles, trailers, and food trucks are regulated separately and not covered by the sidewalk vending permit. Food vending carts must meet Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) requirements, which include approved food-contact surfaces, overhead protection from contamination, handwashing station with potable water, proper food temperature maintenance (hot foods above 135F, cold foods below 41F), waste receptacles, and a valid health permit displayed on the cart. Merchandise carts must not obstruct ADA-compliant pathways. All carts must be removed from public sidewalks at the end of each vending day and may not be stored on public property overnight. Signage on carts must include the vendor's permit number. Propane or open-flame cooking devices must comply with LAFD requirements and may be restricted in certain areas.
Cart violations: administrative fines starting at $250. Health code violations on food carts: LACDPH enforcement, potential closure order. Overnight storage on sidewalk: impoundment of cart and equipment.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Los Angeles County.
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