Mobile Food Vending

The City of Courtenay has expanded opportunities for food vendors, including trucks, trailers and carts. If you are interested in operating a mobile food business, here’s what you need to know.

Applying for a business licence

To start a mobile food vending business, you must apply for a business licence using our business licence application form.

Applications sent by email or in other formats will not be accepted. 

Allow a minimum of two to three weeks for processing. We will contact you with questions or next steps once we have processed your request.

Once your application is approved, you will receive an invoice. Payment is due at that time. Refer to the bill payments page for payment instructions. Once payment is received, your business licence will be mailed to you. 

Where you can operate

Mobile food vendors with a valid business licence can operate in the following areas:

  • Private commercial property: Must be zoned for restaurant use and located at least 30 metres from an existing permanent food establishment. View the restaurant zoning map [PDF - 551 KB].
  • City Parks (designated areas only): Bookings are required in advance and subject to availability:
    • Lewis Park (specific spots near the river and park entrance)
    • Airpark Walkway (grassy median south of Rotary Skypark
    • Standard Park (gravel parking area)

Requirements

Before operating, vendors must provide proof of:

  • Island Health approval
  • Technical Safety BC certification
  • Motor vehicle insurance (for food trucks and trailers)
  • Liability insurance (minimum $2 million, including the City of Courtenay as an additional insured)
  • A discharge management plan for fats, oils and grease disposal

Operating guidelines

  • Permitted hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. on public property; park hours apply in park locations.
  • Prohibited areas:
    • Within 30 metres of a permanent food service establishment.
    • Within 100 metres of elementary schools.
    • Within 150 metres of special events (unless permitted by the event organizer).
    • Residential zones (unless approved for special events like block parties).
  • Environmental standards: No use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) or non-biodegradable materials.
  • Cleanliness: Vendors must maintain cleanliness within a 10-metre radius of their vending area.

Fees

  • Private property: $150 per year (non-prorated)
  • Public property: $450 per year (non-prorated)

Bylaw

Business Licence Amendment Bylaw No. 2847, 2016 [PDF - 1.3 MB]