(Fayetteville, AR) Aldermen in Fayetteville have recently passed amendments to an Outdoor Vendors code and food truck law, allowing food trucks to operate easier on both private and public property. 

The proposal, which was brought forth by Alderman Matthew Petty, was passed unanimously in a council meeting last March 18.  Changes include an extension on private property permits from 90 days to six months and operation on public streets and areas will now also be allowed.

Mobile Vendors on Private Property

Permits for mobile vendors on private property are now issued for 6 months from the previous 90 days.  This will give vendors a chance to complete at least a season of business.  Upon expiry of the permit, the vendor may wish to relocate to a new location that must be at least a quarter of a mile away from the previous site or they may wish to renew/extend their permit to an annual one.  Permits cost $100 for review and processing and applicants must provide the city with a site plan, copies of necessary health permits, tax remittance certificates, and a contract and authorization from the property owner.  One major prerequisite of permitting is that the vendor does not ‘match or duplicate’ the primary food or beverage being offered by the permanent business immediately next to it, on the same side of the street, unless the mobile vendor was there first.

Private property owners may also convert their place into Mobile Vendor Courts which also entails the application of a Conditional Use Permit from the Planning Division.  The property must have a permanent water, sewer, electrical system, as well access to restroom facilities.  Mobile vendors in these courts are not required per se to apply for permits but must also submit the same requirements for permitting to the Planning Division.

Food Truck Limited Time Permit

Permits for operation on public property will be issued yearly to at least three mobile vendors or 1/3 of the total applicants and shall be awarded via lottery draw.  Permits also cost $100 annually and vendors are required to move to a new location not less than a quarter mile away every 4 hours.  Vendors are also not allowed to park directly in front and on the same side of the street of a brick and mortar restaurant, as well in public parking lots in the Entertainment District or the Downtown Business District. 

Vending would also be allowed in city parks, provided that permission from the Parks and Recreation Director is sought.  

You can view the full text of the amendments here.