Sidewalk retail

You can license the use of sidewalk property owned by the City of Vancouver for retail and entertainment purposes. Visit the pages listed below to read more about these opportunities.

Retail opportunities for city sidewalk use

Banners and flags

Find out how to apply to have street banners and flags installed advertising your non-profit group, charitable organization or special event in Vancouver.

Busking and entertainment

Street entertainment, or busking, is a popular form of public entertainment in Vancouver. Find out what is required to busk in Vancouver streets and parks.

Produce and flower displays permit

This permit allows businesses to display produce and flowers for sale outside an existing establishment. Read the requirements, view the bylaw, request an application.

Sidewalk patio with liquor service ("large patio") permit

This permit allows businesses to have sidewalk seating and serve liquor to those guests. Read the requirements, view the bylaw, download the application.

Sidewalk patio without liquor service ("small patio") permit

This permit allows businesses to have sidewalk patios but not to serve liquor there. Read the requirements, view the bylaw, and download the application.

Street food vending

Permit, application and general information for street food vendors and food cart operators.

Non-food vending on Vancouver's streets

Permit, application and general information for non-food street vendors.

Mobile food vending

If you want to sell food on city property using a vending unit that you move from location to location, you require a mobile food vending permit.

Mobile street vending at special events

There are two types of vending permits available for selling goods during special events in Vancouver: One-day special event, and mobile special event. Get details and apply.