Seattle, WA Street Vending: Vendor Permits (2026)

The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) administers the Street and Sidewalk Vending Program, which requires Street Use permits for all vending activities in the public right-of-way. SDOT offers six types of vending permits: Sidewalk and Plaza Street-Food (CAM 2501), Designated Food-Vehicle Zones, Mobile Food Vending (CAM 2509), Seasonal Cafes, Flower Vending, and Special Event Vending. Only food, beverages, and cut flowers may be sold in public spaces under the current program. Vendors must hold a valid Seattle business license in addition to their Street Use permit. Food vendors require permits from the Seattle Fire Department and King County Public Health. The permit approval timeline is approximately 8 weeks from submission of a complete application. Permit fees vary by type and are published in the annual SDOT Street Use Fee Schedule. Vending locations are subject to restrictions including zoning, required setback distances from building entrances and other vendors, clear pedestrian path requirements, and proximity to transit stops.