Hermiston Cracks Down on Unlicensed Food Vendors

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The Hermiston City Council has revamped its food vendor ordinance in response to an influx of unlicensed and unauthorized food vendors, many of whom were coming from the Seattle area down the I-82 corridor. The new rules require vendors to show proper licenses, permits, and owner permission before they can operate in the city.

Why it matters

The city was concerned about the lack of oversight and potential health and safety risks posed by these unlicensed vendors. The new ordinance aims to ensure food safety and protect local businesses by requiring proper licensing and permissions.

The details

Assistant City Manager Mark Morgan said the city saw an increase in tents being set up along Highway 395 in the evenings, with people cooking and selling food without any business licenses, health permits, or permission from property owners. Morgan described it as an "organized ring" coming down from the Seattle area. The new ordinance requires vendors to show food handlers' licenses, health department permits, business licenses, and proof of property owner permission. Failure to provide these items means vendors can be immediately shut down.

• The Hermiston City Council recently revamped its food vendor ordinance.