The newly-adopted ordinances introduce specific permitting and operational guidelines. Image by Markus Winkler from Pixabay

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - The Sacramento County Board of Supervisors voted on Feb. 4 to approve new ordinances to better regulate sidewalk vending in the unincorporated parts of the county, aiming to enhance public health, safety and compliance. These rules will take effect in March.

These ordinances were introduced in response to the significant rise in sidewalk vending following the enactment of Senate Bill 946 in 2019 and Senate Bill 972 in 2023. While these state laws decriminalized sidewalk vending and eased compliance requirements for mobile food vendors, Sacramento County has faced increasing challenges related to vendor compliance and enforcement.

The newly-adopted ordinances introduce specific permitting and operational guidelines. The Department of Finance will oversee the issuance of sidewalk vending business licenses in the county’s unincorporated areas and will work with other county departments to ensure that vendors adhere to business licensing requirements, and avoid restricted locations such as school zones, bike paths and emergency facilities. Vendors must also comply with federal Americans with Disabilities Act regulations and local health codes. A one-year sidewalk vending license will cost $61.

Additionally, the Environmental Management Department has set new standards for compact mobile food operations, including permitting, sanitation, temperature control and approved commissary use. These regulations will apply countywide, including in the incorporated cities. It’s important to note that these rules apply to compact mobile food operations, not mobile food trucks. 

These new regulations do not apply to vending on private property. However, the county is looking into ordinances that address this issue.

In Sacramento County Regional Parks, sidewalk vending will be restricted to designated areas and times to preserve pu​blic access to natural and recreational resources. A Request for Proposal process is being developed for concession agreements for stationary vending. Stationary vending will be limited in parks where exclusive concession agreements exist. Park Rangers will be authorized to enforce these regulations, ensuring vendors operate in compliance with county codes.

To ease the transition, the county will initially focus on education, partnering with the Office of Economic Development, Code Enforcement, Park Rangers and the Sheriff’s Office to inform vendors about the new rules. Two public information sessions were held in January to educate vendors and stakeholders on the upcoming changes.

As these new regulations take effect in March, Sacramento County aims to create a balanced approach that supports small businesses while maintaining public safety and order.