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A program offering more than 280 free, health-code-compliant food vending carts was announced in January for eligible sidewalk vendors to help with safe and legal operations.
Apply for a no-cost Ice Cream Vending Cart!
Through LA County’s Sidewalk Vending Cart Program, eligible vendors may receive a Department of Public Health ( @lapublichealth )–approved cold-hold ice cream cart to help operate legally and safely.
Application assistance and language support are available.
🔗 Apply: opportunity.lacounty.gov/sidewalkvendingcarts/
📞 (844) 432-4900
Parameters for obtaining a cart are detailed within the Department of Economic Opportunity - Sidewalk Vending Cart Program website.
Examples of CMFOs (Compact Mobile Food Operation) include pushcarts, pedal-driven carts, wagons, or other nonmotorized conveyances. Please refer to the cart construction guidelines in the available resources below.
Do you reside in or plan to operate a new CMFO in unincorporated areas of LA County? You may qualify for the CMFO Subsidy Opportunity program. Sidewalk vendors selling food can obtain their CMFO permit at a reduced rate of up to 75% of total permitting costs including inspections. Visit DEO's website to learn more about the subsidy criteria.
The $2.8 million in grants for the carts was made possible through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and other local and federal funds administered by DEO. The application period opens January 12, 2026, and will continue while supplies last.
The program is an outcome of Senate Bill 946 Safe Sidewalk Vending Act and The Compact Mobile Food Operation category which was amended in 2022 thru Senate Bill SB 972.
"On February 6, 2024, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved changes to health permits, fees, and services for mobile food businesses that took effect on March 6, 2024. View the Changes Announcement and the New Mobile Food Facilities Fee Schedule for more information."
Sidewalk Food Vending | Los Angeles County Department of Public Health - Environmental Health
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