The Stockton City Council has unanimously approved a comprehensive new street vendor ordinance, marking a major milestone for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and neighborhood vitality throughout the city. The ordinance was approved on December 16, 2025, and formally announced by the City of Stockton this week.
The new ordinance brings Stockton into full alignment with California state street vending laws, including Senate Bill 946 (2018), Senate Bill 972 (2022), and the recently enacted Senate Bill 635 (2025). Together, these laws were created to encourage entrepreneurship and economic opportunity while ensuring public health, safety, and accessibility in shared public spaces.
Mayor Christina Fugazi described the ordinance as the result of a thoughtful and inclusive process.
“This ordinance represents a balanced approach that supports small business owners and economic opportunity while protecting our parks, sidewalks, and public spaces,” Mayor Fugazi said. “After years of working without clear guidelines, we now have a framework that serves both our vendors and our community.”
Clear Rules for Vendors and the Community
The ordinance establishes new regulations in two primary areas. Under Business Licensing (Title 5), the City creates clearer permitting and licensing requirements for street vendors, including provisions for a newly recognized category known as Compact Mobile Food Operations (CMFOs). Under Operational Standards and Enforcement (Title 8), the ordinance sets standards for vending locations, hours of operation, equipment size, waste management, and health and safety requirements.
Additional provisions include restrictions on vending near schools, city facilities, and certain businesses; sanitation and trash requirements; and public property use fees that will help maintain parks and public spaces impacted by vending activity. Certified farmers’ markets, swap meets, and permitted special events are exempt from the ordinance.
Community-Driven Policy
The ordinance was shaped through an extensive 10-month community engagement process led by Councilmember Mario Enríquez. The effort included meetings with vendors and residents, collaboration with city staff, and two public town halls to gather input.
“Street vendors are a vital part of Stockton’s economy and culture,” Councilmember Enríquez said. “Supporting their ability to operate legally and safely strengthens our neighborhoods and our local economy.”
What Comes Next
The ordinance will officially take effect on January 16, 2026. Fee schedule amendments required for enforcement will be presented at a future City Council hearing. In the meantime, the City will focus on education and outreach, working directly with vendors to help them understand and comply with the new requirements before any monetary penalties are imposed.
City staff from multiple departments, including Neighborhood Services and the City Manager’s Office, will coordinate implementation and outreach efforts to ensure a smooth transition.
For street vendors and residents alike, the ordinance represents a new chapter—one that aims to support entrepreneurship, protect public spaces, and bring clarity and fairness to street vending across Stockton.