Brampton, ON – The City of Brampton has officially enacted significant updates to its mobile licensing bylaw, marking the first comprehensive overhaul since 2014. The newly revised bylaw introduces important regulations that affect nearly 80 food trucks currently operating across the city, aiming to improve public safety, clarify zoning requirements, and support the long-term success of the mobile food industry.
Approved by Brampton City Council, the updated bylaw covers a wide range of changes, including new licensing standards, spacing regulations, and zoning confirmation requirements for both vendors and private property owners hosting food trucks. Notably, the Downtown Brampton Business Improvement Area (DBBIA) has stepped back from its former oversight role, with the city now fully responsible for managing food truck operations in the downtown core.
Among the key changes:
- Food trucks must be spaced at least 5 metres apart if 1 to 3 units are operating on a property; 10 metres apart if 4 or more are present.
- A 50-metre buffer zone prohibits food trucks from setting up near existing brick-and-mortar restaurants, bars, or cafés.
- Zoning confirmation and written property owner consent are now mandatory for mobile vendors operating on private land.
- Property owners must provide adequate washroom facilities for patrons and food truck staff and ensure compliance with all municipal bylaws.
Initially, council approved a stricter version of the bylaw on April 30 that included a ban near major transit station areas (MTSAs) and a blanket 50-metre vendor spacing rule. However, following strong feedback from food truck operators—including vendor Karan Devgan, who warned the changes could “put 70 food trucks out of business”—council directed staff to revise the bylaw. The MTSA ban was removed and spacing rules eased, though the 50-metre restaurant buffer remains in place.
To help vendors transition, the city has introduced a 45-day grace period for compliance. After that, violations may result in a $250 fine for the first offence, escalating to additional fines and potential summons under the Provincial Offences Act.
“The City of Brampton remains committed to supporting local entrepreneurs while ensuring public health, safety, and responsible land use,” the city said in a statement. “Staff are available to work closely with business owners and property managers to support compliance during this transition period.”
The changes also affect Class C refreshment vehicles, which include food trucks, hot dog stands, and similar mobile food vendors, as well as roadside peddlers and ride-sharing services.
For more information and bylaw details, business owners are encouraged to visit:
www.brampton.ca or contact the City of Brampton Licensing Division.