The Multnomah County Health Department is urging the public to buy food only from licensed food carts and restaurants, citing serious public health and safety concerns related to unlicensed vendors.
Unlicensed vendors operate without inspections or permits, which means health inspectors cannot verify how food is stored or prepared. These carts often lack essential equipment, such as proper food handling tools, handwashing facilities, clean water, and refrigeration. They also pose a fire risk due to improper fuel storage. People who unknowingly consume food from these vendors could potentially contract foodborne illnesses.
“We’re asking people this weekend to support your local licensed food vendors,” said Jeff Martin, Interim Environmental Health Director. “That’s how we protect our thriving food cart industry and public health in Portland. Our focus is helping small businesses succeed.”
Since the summer of 2023, the Health Department has seen an increase in unlicensed red push carts selling hot dogs near event venues and bars, often operating on sidewalks or in closed streets. Many of these vendors have been transported to Portland from other areas, raising additional concerns about compliance with local regulations.
“We can’t have people coming from out of town, disregarding County rules, and selling unsafe food that negatively impacts public health and the livelihoods of licensed food businesses,” Martin added.
The Health Department has shut down four vans with out-of-state license plates that were dropping off vendors and their carts near Portland venues. Despite these actions, some vendors have continued to operate illegally. Six carts labeled as “unlicensed” by the Health Department have covered the stickers, misleading customers and continuing to sell food.
In an effort to address the issue, the Health Department has adopted an education-first approach, making multiple attempts to engage with these cart operators. Inspectors have informed vendors about the necessary business permits and how to obtain them, provided translated materials, and involved inspectors who speak the primary languages of the vendors. Health jurisdictions in Washington and California have reported similar issues with unlicensed hot dog vending operations.
“There is a legal way to operate a mobile hot dog stand: Obtain a temporary license from the Health Department,” said Martin. “We’ve tried working with these unlicensed vendors, but they have been unwilling to follow our guidance, which harms both licensed food vendors and the public.”
Licensed mobile food vendors will always display their County-approved health permit. If you do not see one, do not hesitate to ask the vendor.
