Portland, OR Street Vending: Vendor Permits (2026)

Any vending on Portland public property is governed by PCC 17.42 (Use of the Right-of-Way), which requires a Sidewalk Vendor Permit from PBOT for fixed carts or kiosks on the sidewalk, and an Outdoor Sales Permit for stationary stands. Application is filed with PBOT and reviewed for: setbacks (5-foot clear pedestrian path under ADA), location (prohibited in most Downtown sidewalks under PBOT zoning restrictions; some locations prohibited by PCC 17.42 in front of restaurants within 50 feet), and term (annual). Fees vary by category, typically $200-$600/year. Vending in Portland Parks (Tom McCall Waterfront, Pioneer Courthouse Square, neighborhood parks) requires a separate Portland Parks & Recreation Vendor Permit, with concession agreements for high-traffic locations bid competitively. Food vendors must also obtain a Multnomah County Environmental Health Mobile Food Unit license (for prepared food) or Temporary Restaurant license (event-based, up to 30 days). Vending without an OLCC license is prohibited for beer, wine, or spirits. Special-event vendors (Saturday Market, Last Thursday on Alberta, neighborhood farmer's markets) operate under master permits held by the event organizer, with each vendor still required to hold a Multnomah County health permit if selling food. All vendors need an Oregon Business Registry number (Secretary of State) and a Portland Business License Tax registration with the City Revenue Division. Sales tax does not apply (Oregon has none), but income tax does.