California’s approach to sidewalk vending has undergone significant changes in recent years. With the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 946 in 2018, known as the Safe Sidewalk Vending Act, the state decriminalized sidewalk vending and mandated that local governments allow vendors to operate with limited restrictions. This law aimed to promote economic opportunity, particularly for low-income and immigrant communities, while fostering vibrant public spaces. However, it also created challenges for municipalities seeking to regulate sidewalk vending effectively. In 2022, SB 972 introduced additional provisions, specifically regulating sidewalk food vending by creating a new classification known as Compact Mobile Food Operations (CMFOs). While intended to clarify regulations, the law has added further complexity to enforcement efforts. This article outlines the current legal framework for sidewalk vending, the enforcement challenges cities and counties face, and potential strategies for maintaining compliance while protecting public health, safety, and welfare. The Legal Landscape of Sidewalk Vending SB 946: The Safe Sidewalk Vending Act SB 946 decriminalized sidewalk vending and...
