§ 37–131.06c. Food vending cart service and storage requirements.

(a) Food vending carts may be serviced and stored in the following locations:

(1) A vending depot that meets the requirements of section 574 of Title 24 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations (24 DCMR § 574);

(2) A shared kitchen or support facility;

(3) An existing, brick-and-mortar food establishment with a fixed location, such as a delicatessen, bakery, or restaurant;

(4) A community center;

(5) A cottage food business if the vending cart belongs to the cottage food business; or

(6) A microenterprise home kitchen business if the vending cart belongs to the microenterprise home kitchen business.

(b) A shared kitchen or support facility, existing food establishment with a fixed location, or a community center may be permitted to support the servicing and storage of food vending carts; provided, that:

(1) The food vending cart will be stored in a space and manner that protects the cart from contamination;

(2) There is adequate space for the proper storage of inventory, such as food, supplies, and utensils, used by the vendor;

(3) There is adequate space for the cleaning of any food vending carts serviced and stored at the facility;

(4) The vendor has access to on-site food preparation and food handling areas, if needed; and

(5) The facility will provide access to hot and cold water, potable water, electrical outlets, and receptacles or systems for the proper disposal of trash and food waste.

(c) A microenterprise home kitchen business may be permitted to support the service and storage of up to two food vending carts; provided, that:

(1) The food vending cart will be stored in a space and manner that protects the cart from contamination;

(2) The storage area is designated and clearly identified upon approval and shall not be relocated without approval by the Department of Health;

(3) The microenterprise home kitchen business is capable of supporting the proper preparation and storage of the food being sold from the food vending cart.

(d) An alternative service and storage facility, such as a private garage, may be permitted to support the service and storage of up to 4 food vending carts; provided, that:

(1) The vendors sell only prepackaged food or non-potentially hazardous uncut fruits and vegetables;

(2) The facility provides the vendor with access to on-site potable water;

(3) The service and storage areas are free of pests such as rats; and

(4) Food items are not prepared or stored in the facility.