San Diego, CA Street Vending: Vending Zones (2026)

Under SDMC Chapter 3, Article 6, Division 1 (implementing SB 946), San Diego establishes the following vending zone restrictions: vending is prohibited on sidewalks with a width of less than 6 feet; in residential zoning districts; within 25 feet of a pier or beach access point; within 50 feet of a bus stop, trolley station, or other transit stop; within 50 feet of another sidewalk vendor; within a permitted certified farmers' market during operating hours; and within the boundaries of a permitted special event during event hours. The City may establish additional temporary restricted zones for large special events or public safety concerns. Stationary vendors must not obstruct ADA-compliant accessible paths. Roaming vendors (those moving continuously) face fewer location restrictions but must still maintain pedestrian clearance. The Gaslamp Quarter, Little Italy, and other Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) may have additional local restrictions coordinated with the City's sidewalk vending program. Vendors operating in City parks are subject to separate Parks and Recreation Department regulations.