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SidewalkSnitch / Regulations / Street Vending / DOT-VND-003
Street Vendor — Cart Not Abutting the Curb
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 rule
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 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.