Sidewalk Vending

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

All sidewalk vending activities are regulated by Chapter 4.04 (Sidewalk Vending) of the Rancho Santa Margarita Municipal Code. For additional information, please contact the Planning Division at (949) 635-1800 ext. 6705.  Please complete the Sidewalk Vending Permit Application to apply for a permit.

Does a sidewalk vendor need a permit or license to operate in the City of Rancho Santa Margarita?

Yes, a sidewalk vendor must obtain a Sidewalk Vending Permit prior to operating.  If a vendor is selling  food,  an  Orange  County  Health  Care  Agency  Permit  is required. Approved permits and licenses must be displayed at all times at a location visible to the public.

How do I apply for a permit?

The Sidewalk Vending Permit application may be downloaded from the City’s website by clicking the links on this page or on the Planning Forms page.   Applications  must  be  submitted  in-person  at  the Planning Division public counter Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.) and on Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. Online submittals are not accepted at this time.

When does a sidewalk vending permit expire? 

The Sidewalk Vending Permit is valid for a one (1) year period. A person may apply for a permit renewal prior to the expiration of his or her active Sidewalk Vending Permit.

Where may a sidewalk vendor operate?

Sidewalk vendors may operate on public sidewalks, pedestrian paths, and other public right- of-way available to pedestrians, subject to the operating requirements and restrictions of Chapter 4.04 of the City's Municipal Code.

Is a merchandise table considered a sidewalk vending cart?

Yes. A vending cart means a pushcart, stand, display, pedal-driven cart, wagon, showcase, rack, or other non-motorized conveyance used for vending, that is not a vehicle as defined in the California Vehicle Code.

How big can a sidewalk vending cart be?

Sidewalk  vendors  and  all  aspects  of  their  operations,  including  but  not  limited to, vending cart(s), associated equipment, and space occupied by the vendor or their employees,  shall  not  occupy  a  space  exceeding  horizontal  dimensions  of  a square measuring six feet by six feet (6' x 6').  No vending cart, or associated equipment shall exceed a height of four feet (4’-0"), excluding umbrellas and sneeze guards.

Is a sidewalk vendor allowed to use an easy up or canopy?

No. Except for a table, chair, and umbrella for a stationary vendor, no other tables, chairs, fences, shade structures, easy ups, tents, canopies, other site furniture, or any freestanding signs shall be permitted in conjunction with any sidewalk vending activities.

Do food trucks require a Sidewalk Vending Permit?

No.  Chapter 4.04 (Sidewalk Vending) does not apply to food trucks.  Food trucks are regulated by the Orange County Health Care Agency and must have a permit to operate. Food trucks may operate on private property if authorized by the property owner and/or property manager.

How long does it take to obtain a Sidewalk Vending Permit and can an application request be denied?

Within thirty (30) calendar days of receiving a complete application, the City must act on the permit pursuant to the requirements of RSMMC Section 4.04.050.

Can a sidewalk vendor transfer his/her permit?

No,  a  Sidewalk  Vending  Permit  cannot  be  transferred  to  another  applicant, employee, or business owner.