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Street Vendor — License/Permit Not Visible in Frame
Street Vending · NYC DOHMH / DCWP · NYC Admin Code §17-311(b) (food); §20-461 (general)
Street Vendor — License/Permit Not Visible in Frame is enforced by NYC DOHMH / DCWP under NYC Admin Code §17-311(b) (food); §20-461 (general). Severity default: Medium.
The rule
A food vendor's license must be worn conspicuously on the vendor's person while operating, and a general vendor's license must likewise be worn conspicuously. Cite this rule only as a POSSIBLE issue when no badge is visible on the vendor in the photo, and keep confidence at or below 0.6 — a badge out of frame, turned, or covered is NOT proof the vendor is unlicensed. EXEMPTION: veteran, disabled-veteran, and First Amendment expressive-matter vendors (books, art, written matter) are exempt from conspicuous-badge and much licensing law and cannot be distinguished from a photo; never assert an 'unlicensed' determination.
What to photograph
- no badge or ID worn on the vendor's body or apron
- license badge turned around, covered, or obscured
- permit badge stored inside the cart rather than worn
How to file a complaint
- Photograph vendor setup, cart, and whether permit decal is visible.
- Note distance from curb, crosswalk, or subway entrance.
- File at 311 under Vendor Enforcement or Mobile Food Vendor.
Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOHMH / DCWP.
Penalties & fines
DCWP and DOHMH fines vary by license type; unlicensed vending can result in confiscation and fines over $1,000.
What happens after you file
DCWP and NYPD enforce vending rules. Food vendors also fall under DOHMH grade and permit requirements.
SidewalkSnitch supports photo analysis for vendor complaints. Draft a filing in the app →
Related guides
FAQ
Can I file anonymously?
311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings but does not auto-submit to 311.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
SidewalkSnitch can analyze photos for vendor violations and prepare a ready-to-file draft. Direct 311 submission is not live yet — you file at 311.nyc.gov for a Service Request Number.