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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Street Vending / DOT-VND-003
Street Vendor — Cart Not Abutting the Curb
Regulation
Street Vending · NYC DOHMH / DCWP · NYC Admin Code §20-465(b) (general); §17-315(a) (food)
Street Vendor — Cart Not Abutting the Curb is enforced by NYC DOHMH / DCWP under NYC Admin Code §20-465(b) (general); §17-315(a) (food). Severity default: Medium.
The regulation
A pushcart or stand may be placed only on the part of the sidewalk that abuts the curb. A cart positioned mid-sidewalk or against the building line violates the rule.
What to photograph
- cart in the middle of the sidewalk
- cart pushed against a building wall
- open strip of sidewalk between the cart and the curb
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 appFAQ
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.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.