Street vendors who peddle everything from tacos to Korean barbecue in Stockton could face new fees and a long list of rules under a city proposal.
The revised regulations are being offered for public comment in keeping with a pair of state laws, one of which specifically allows vending in public parks. A hearing about the amended rules is being held before the City Council’s Environmental Committee at 3 p.m. today at Stockton City Hall.
The city said it is trying to balance the needs of vendors while maintaining open public spaces and giving parkgoers a good experience.
The proposed new city rules impose a $60 public property use fee on vendors. They also would lay out a long list of regulations covering locations, hours of operation and the amount of space allotted to a booth, cart or stand. There also are rules about sanitation, food handling, waste disposal, noise and making sure that no damage is caused to city parks or buildings.
Paperwork and permits would also be required under the new regulations, including obtaining a state Tax and Fee Administration Seller’s permit and for food vendors, a San Joaquin County Environmental Health permit.
As for the operation itself, requirements would include how close a seller can set up near a sidewalk; a prohibition against canopies, except where required by health regulations; and a prohibition on tables and chairs and portable generators.
Vendors will be banned from operating within 300 feet of a freeway onramp or exit, a public or private golf course, a recreation facility, library, youth or senior center, the Banner Island Ballpark or the Adventist Health Arena. And sellers won’t be allowed to operate within 50 feet of a bus stop, entrance to a parking garage, fire hydrant or crosswalk.
Food vendors also won’t be able to operate within 100 feet of each other under the proposed regulations.
Penalties for violating any of the rules could range from $100 to $1,000.
After today’s meeting, the proposal is expected to go before the Legislative Committee before heading to the full council for a vote.