Charlotte, NC Street Vending: Vendor Permits (2026)

Charlotte's Street Vendor Programs, administered by the City of Charlotte, require permits for vendors operating on public sidewalks, streets, and in parks. Permit types include Sidewalk Vendor Permits (for merchandise, food, or services on public sidewalks), Street Vendor Permits (for designated spaces on city streets), Park Vendor Permits (for selling in public parks and recreational areas), and Temporary Vendor Permits (for short-term vending at special events lasting less than 30 days). Application requirements include a valid Charlotte business license, proof of commercial general liability insurance (typically $1 million), a site plan showing the proposed vending location with measurements, and for food vendors, Mecklenburg County Environmental Health permits, food handler certifications, and a commissary agreement. The city operates specific vendor programs including the Tryon Street program and the NoDa Street Market pilot program. The NoDa pilot, which required street vendors to apply for permits before selling goods, has been considered a success in reducing conflicts between permitted and unpermitted vendors. Charlotte City Council has been evaluating extending the street vending permit requirements citywide.