What Is Street Vending?
Street vending is the act of selling, hawking, or peddling any personal service or item in or upon public streets, sidewalks, alleys, public ways, public buildings, public parks, or other public places in Kansas City, Missouri. Street vending may be conducted from a mobile unit, pushcart, vendor booth on public property, or directly from the vendor’s person.
Street Vending Permit
Peddler's licenses allow individuals to legally sell food, beverages, merchandise, or personal services in approved public areas within Kansas City, Missouri.
Prohibited Locations
Street vending is not allowed in the following areas:
- Any street designated as a trafficway, boulevard, or parkway.
- The area bounded by Brookside Blvd. (S), Ward Pkwy. (S), Summit St. (W), 45th St. (N), and Grand Ave. (E).
- Specific blocks in the Downtown/Central Street corridor, including portions of 12th, 13th, and 14th Streets.
- Any public place with posted signage indicating vending is prohibited.
- Any location where vending would violate another City ordinance.
- Truman Sports Complex, except sales by tenants or their designees.
- Specific restricted areas along Grand Blvd., Oak St., Truman Road North Drive, and 13th Street.
Additional Restrictions
Additional restrictions under Ordinance Sec. 50-453 include:
- Vending within 300 feet of a business selling similar items, such as food vendors near restaurants.
- Vending within one block of a school during the 30 minutes before opening or after dismissal.
- Vending in any location that blocks sidewalks, driveways, alleys, or ADA access.
Business License vs. Peddler/Street Vendor Permit
| Business License | Peddler/Street Vendor Permit |
|---|---|
| Required for businesses operating in Kansas City, Missouri. | Required for businesses selling goods on public property such as streets, sidewalks, parks, and other public places. |
| Obtained through the Business License Division. | Obtained through the Business License Division. |
| License fee varies based on the type of business and projected revenue. | Flat fee of $62.50. |
| Approved applicants receive a Business License. | Approved applicants receive a Peddler License and display sticker. |
| Generally applies to most businesses operating in Kansas City. | Applies only to businesses conducting sales from public or temporary locations within KCMO. |
Note: Vendors whose business activities are limited to selling only on public property may obtain just a Peddler/Street Vendor License rather than both licenses. Businesses operating from a fixed location or conducting other business activities within Kansas City are required to obtain a Business License.
For questions or concerns, please contact 816-513-1120 ext. 3.
How to Apply
You can apply for a business license and street vending license in one of the following ways:
- Use the QuickTax system for online business license registration. If you have questions about the QuickTax system or specific business license questions, call (816) 513-1120 ext. 3. Processing typically takes 7-10 business days.
- Fill out the RD-100 Registration Application and fax or mail it using the information on the form. Processing typically takes 7-10 business days.
- Visit City Hall at 414 E. 12th St., Kansas City, MO 64106, Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM to get your license issued on the spot.
Contact
Business License
414 E. 12th St.
Kansas City, MO 64106
816-513-1120 ext. 3
Business.license@kcmo.org