Council debate over proposed mobile food vending rules centers on enforcement and public-health permits

On March 16 council and staff discussed a planned update to Spokane’s mobile food vending rules, which have not been substantively updated since 2014. The proposed ordinance would eliminate the city’s separate $60 vendor registration, clarify where vendors may operate with private property owner permission (including gravel lots), keep a 50‑foot buffer from restaurant entrances and prohibit alcohol sales on the public right‑of‑way.

Supporters said the changes reduce duplicative fees and regulatory burden on small operators who already hold business licenses and must pass health‑district inspections. The proposal would also move vending rules into a new “activation of public spaces” code chapter alongside street‑cafe and special‑events rules.

Several council members, however, raised concerns that removing the city registration could limit the city’s ability to hold vendors accountable and to coordinate with the health district. One council member urged requiring a health‑district permit as a prerequisite to operate on city streets and asked that vendors be required to have trash‑and‑cleanup plans and enforceable permits so the city could act when illegal vendors create litter or public‑safety problems.

Staff said many illegal, unpermitted vendors are already a challenge for enforcement and that the proposal attempts to balance lowering barriers for legitimate small businesses with public‑health and nuisance protections. Council discussion indicated further refinement is likely before any final ordinance vote.