In San Francisco, recent regulations are making it tougher for food vendors to operate. Lourdes Villegas, who has been selling food for five years, worries about these changes. Like many vendors, she’s uncertain about her future.
Gabriela Carbajal has been in the business for 14 years. She expressed that they’re not seeking financial assistance; they just want to work. “We don’t want to be a burden,” she said.
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors approved a new law that mandates vendors to meet updated health and safety standards. This law requires them to use specialized carts equipped with handwashing stations and refrigerators. The price tag for these modifications can reach $10,000—money that many vendors simply do not have.
Adding to the challenges, vendors can no longer cook at home. Leila Ovando, a professional chef and director of food access at Nuestra Causa, highlights the financial strain this puts on vendors. “Kitchens can cost $30 to $100 per hour, which eats into their profits,” she explained. Many vendors report earning around $2,000 a month, making it tough to cover new expenses.
Recent data showed that among 88 inspections of mobile food vendors in 2025, 60 health violations were recorded. These violations often included the lack of handwashing stations and improper food storage. The city aims to address these issues, hoping to improve public health standards.
The San Francisco Department of Public Health stated the changes align local codes with state requirements. Nuestra Causa represents about 75 food vendors in the Mission District, advocating for support to help them buy the necessary equipment and find working locations.
Ovando added, “We’re not against the ordinance. We’re working with the city to ensure health and safety while securing spaces for vendors.” The second reading of this ordinance is scheduled for April 7.
This move reflects a broader trend in cities across the U.S. where regulations for street vendors are tightening. While this might improve health standards, it’s crucial to balance public safety with the livelihoods of those who depend on street vending.
You can find further insights and documents on San Francisco’s regulations here.
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