The Jurupa Valley City Council convened on June 26, 2025, to discuss significant amendments to the city’s zoning code regarding mobile food vending. This new ordinance aims to regulate mobile vendors operating on public streets and private properties, addressing community concerns about unpermitted vending and public safety.

The proposed changes, presented by staff member Joe Perez, are the result of extensive input from the council and community members. The ordinance introduces a new permitting system that distinguishes between vending on public rights of way and private property. Vendors will now be required to submit specific documentation, including proof of insurance and valid health permits, to operate legally. This move is expected to enhance compliance with state laws and improve public safety.

Key components of the ordinance include clear definitions of various types of mobile vending facilities, such as food trucks and push carts, and the establishment of a permitting process that standardizes permit durations to 12 months. The ordinance also outlines conditions for permit approval, denial, and revocation, along with an appeals process for vendors whose permits are denied or revoked.

In response to concerns about public safety, the ordinance maintains a minimum five-foot accessible path on sidewalks and prohibits vendors from operating near schools during school hours and in areas with visibility issues. Additionally, it allows for group vending sites, where multiple vendors can operate in designated commercial or industrial zones, provided they meet specific operational standards.

The council also discussed enforcement measures, including the hiring of two code enforcement officers and a dedicated sheriff's deputy to ensure compliance. The enforcement strategy will be phased in, starting with educational outreach for vendors, followed by warnings, and ultimately citations for non-compliance. The city plans to begin this incremental enforcement in July.

Council members expressed appreciation for the thoroughness of the ordinance and its potential to support local businesses while ensuring a safe environment for residents. They acknowledged the challenges posed by state laws that limit the city’s ability to impose certain restrictions on vendors, such as prohibiting them from operating near existing businesses.

As the city moves forward with these changes, the council aims to balance the interests of mobile vendors with the needs of established businesses and the community at large. The ordinance is set to be reviewed again in six months to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.