Mobile Food Vendors
Ordinance 89-22, which stipulates all Mobile Food Vendors in Cape Coral be treated alike (except ice cream trucks) and requires food trucks to stay mobile, officially took effect on April 25, 2023. The goal is to establish basic health and safety regulations. Before adopting this ordinance, no operational standards existed for food trucks in Cape Coral.
The goal is to establish basic health and safety regulations. Before adopting this ordinance, no operational standards were in place for food trucks in Cape Coral.
As referenced in the ordinance, “staying mobile” means:
- Food trucks are not allowed to park at job sites overnight.
- Seating areas are not allowed. This is to eliminate "food truck-based outdoor restaurants.”
- Certain elements, such as signs and water/sewer hookups, are not permitted.
The ordinance exempts food trucks that are participating in a special event or operating in a declared state of emergency.
Cape Coral's ordinance was drafted to mirror Lee County Ordinance 22-01, which took effect in January 2022, using definitions and code requirements adapted from the County’s Code.
Allowed Zoning Districts
- Commercial
- Professional Office
- Industrial
- Commercial Corridor
- Neighborhood Commercial
- Mixed-Use Bimini
- Mixed-Use Seven Islands District
- South Cape District
Prohibited Zoning Districts
- All Residential
- Agricultural
- Preservation
Except if located in public parks and recreational facilities, City parking lots, or Government facilities (with prior approval)
New Regulations
- Not allowed in a street right-of-way or right-of-way easement, (except ice cream vehicles)
- Do not block pedestrian, bicycle, or motorized traffic
- Tents and tarps are allowed for patrons ONLY where orders are placed
- All vending operation items must be kept inside the vehicle
- No selling alcohol
- Portable generator or temporary connection to fixed electrical service point allowed
- Display hours, MFDV license, and notarized permission from property owner
- Self-contain and properly dispose of liquid waste and grease
- No permanent water or wastewater connections
- Trash can must be provided, and the area kept free of litter
- Park on an approved impervious surface (no parking on grass)
- Move vehicle, equipment, and accessories at the end of the night
- Do not park on required off-street parking or handicap parking spaces