Title
a. Receive an update on unpermitted food vendor enforcement progress, including coordination outcomes, barriers, and staff effectiveness; and
b. Provide further direction to staff, as appropriate.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive an update on unpermitted food vendor enforcement progress, including coordination outcomes, barriers, and staff effectiveness; and
b. Provide further direction to staff, as appropriate.
SUMMARY:
EHB has experienced a significant increase in complaints related to unpermitted food vendors operating in unincorporated areas of Monterey County. Unpermitted food vendors are selling or peddling food from carts, trucks, trailers, tables, trunks of their cars, or from their home without a permit from Environmental Health Bureau (EHB). EHB and the District Attorney’s Office continue to collaborate on enforcement efforts for the health and safety of the community.
DISCUSSION:
On October 25, 2024, the Planning Commission Referral No. 24.8 requested a report be provided to the County of Monterey Board of Supervisors on the EHB regulations and enforcement strategies to address unpermitted food vendors throughout unincorporated Monterey County.
On February 3, 2026, EHB provided an update to the Board of Supervisors on efforts to address the regulations and enforcement efforts to curb unpermitted food vendors. EHB inspectors contacted vendors, provided food safety education, informed vendors of available permitting options, and requested that operations cease. EHB escalated enforcement actions to issuing administrative citations, impoundment of food and food equipment, and administrative hearings. Due to safety concerns for inspectors, the District Attorney’s Office Investigation Team has provided critical support by ensuring staff safety, assisting with vendor identification, supporting equipment impoundment and storage, and initiating enforcement actions.
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