Street vendor permits in Houston, TX — sometimes called sidewalk vendor licenses, mobile vendor permits, or peddler permits — are the licenses required to sell goods or food on public property.
Houston requires a street vendor license under Chapter 22 of the Code of Ordinances. Vendors must post a $10,000 surety bond. Each permit is limited to 7 consecutive days of operation, and vending between midnight and 7 AM is prohibited.
Houston Code of Ordinances Chapter 22 (Street Vendors) requires any person engaged in temporary or transient business of selling merchandise from a vehicle on the streets to obtain a vendor license from the ARA Department. The license requires a $10,000 surety bond that must remain in effect for the permit duration plus two years thereafter. Each permit allows only 7 consecutive days of operation at a specific location. Mobile food vendors also need a Houston Health Department food permit and must operate from a licensed commissary. Street vending is prohibited between midnight and 7 AM. Vendors must not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular traffic and must maintain at least 4 feet of sidewalk clearance. The city issues separate licenses for ice cream trucks, pushcart vendors, and mobile food vehicles.
Operating without a license is a misdemeanor with fines up to $2,000. The $10,000 bond can be forfeited for violations. Merchandise may be seized. Health code violations can result in immediate shutdown.
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