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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Street Vending / DOT-VND-007
Street Vendor — Goods on the Ground or Leaning on a Structure
Regulation
Street Vending · NYC DCWP / DOHMH · NYC Admin Code §20-465(c) (general); §17-315(b)-(c) (food)
Street Vendor — Goods on the Ground or Leaning on a Structure is enforced by NYC DCWP / DOHMH under NYC Admin Code §20-465(c) (general); §17-315(b)-(c) (food). Severity default: Medium.
The regulation
Carts, stands, goods, and vending items may not touch, lean against, or be affixed to any building or street structure (lamp posts, parking meters, mailboxes, hydrants, tree boxes, benches, bus shelters). Food-vendor goods must stay in or under the unit. Merchandise on the ground or against a wall is a violation.
What to photograph
- merchandise spread on the sidewalk or on blankets
- goods leaning against a building facade
- cart or goods touching a lamppost, meter, or bench
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 DCWP / DOHMH.
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.