Unpermitted food carts are popping up all over Washington state, raising alarms among public health officials. Many of these vendors operate under unsanitary conditions, posing health risks to customers who may not realize the danger.
Recently, the Everett City Council acted to tackle this issue. They unanimously passed a new ordinance aimed at cracking down on unauthorized street food vendors. If caught without a city business license or health department permit, these vendors could face serious legal consequences, including fines or even jail time. For owners, penalties could reach up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine, while workers may face 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Mayor Cassie Franklin emphasized the importance of protecting customers from foodborne illnesses. She noted that the current enforcement measures were inadequate. The goal is to ensure that food safety standards are maintained, providing a fair playing field for all food businesses.
According to Eyob Mazengia, head of food safety for Public Health — Seattle & King County, the problem has worsened recently. In 2025, inspectors shut down over 200 unauthorized food vendors compared to just a dozen a few years back. Mazengia explained that while inspectors can temporarily close these stands, they often reappear quickly in new locations.
This issue is not just local; it’s gaining attention across the country. In 2022, a study from the National Association of County and City Health Officials found that nearly 40% of local health departments reported an increase in unlicensed food vendors. Experts suggest that many of these operations lack basic food safety practices, putting consumers at risk for serious illnesses like salmonella and E. coli.
Without proper permits, there’s no guarantee that the food sold is safe. Mazengia noted that many unpermitted vendors do not have proper handwashing stations, fail to keep food at safe temperatures, and operate out of makeshift kitchens. Common unauthorized vendors include roadside stands and push carts selling items like hot dogs and tacos. Consumer awareness is crucial; it’s essential to look for posted food safety ratings or ask for permits when buying food from these stands.
Local health departments are collaborating with cities to share best practices and combat unlicensed vendors effectively. If you suspect a vendor is operating without a permit or in unsafe conditions, reporting them can help keep the community healthy.
For further information on food safety regulations, you can check the [Washington State Department of Health](https://doh.wa.gov/). Keeping our food safe should be a priority for everyone involved.
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Food | Washington | Public Health | Food and Beverage
