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Regulations / 311 / Mobile Food Vendor

Report a food cart or food truck in NYC

Street Vendors · DOHMH (food safety) · DSNY (location and license) · 311 service type

Use the 311 Street Vendor Complaint (311 KA-02152) and pick the path that fits. The Health Department (DOHMH) handles food safety complaints. DSNY handles complaints about where a vendor works and vendors with no license. DSNY has been the lead agency for street vendor enforcement since April 2023.

How to file

  1. In 311, open Street Vendor Complaint (311 KA-02152).
  2. Unsafe food (bare hands on ready-to-eat food, spoiled food, pests, a sick worker, smoke or odor): pick Unsanitary. DOHMH handles it.
  3. A vendor in a prohibited spot: pick In a Prohibited Area. DSNY handles it.
  4. No city license or permit: pick Unlicensed. DSNY handles it.
  5. Trash left around the cart or truck: pick Trash.
  6. Counterfeit goods: call 911. (311 KA-02152)
  7. Include the exact location, the date and time, and the license or permit number on the cart's decal if you can see it. (311 KA-02152)

Who enforces

DSNY has been the lead agency for street vendor enforcement since April 2023. DOHMH issues mobile food vending permits and licenses. (DSNY Street Vending Enforcement)

What happens after you file

311 sends food safety complaints to DOHMH and location or license complaints to DSNY. Food made you sick? Use the 311 Food Poisoning page instead. (311 KA-02152)

Evidence tips

  • The exact location, and the date and time.
  • The license or permit number on the cart's decal, if you can see it.

SidewalkSnitch supports related complaints in Street Vendors.

Open the app

Related guides

FAQ

Who inspects food carts?

The Health Department (DOHMH) handles food safety complaints. (311 KA-02152)

Who enforces where vendors can stand?

DSNY, since April 2023. (DSNY)

Can I report a vendor without a license?

Yes. Use the "Unlicensed" path. (311 KA-02152)

What if the vendor sells fake brand goods?

Call 911. (311 KA-02152)

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