Complaints Prompt Environmental Health to Cite Food Trucks

As a result of numerous complaints in the past few weeks, the Environmental Health Department conducted compliance checks over the weekend on food truck vendors operating downtown that resulted in several trucks getting cited.

Several vendors were cited for illegally parking vehicles, or for parking vehicles that are too large for Downtown spaces. EHD issued five first offense civil violations and issued several demand letters to vendors who had failed to maintain current payment for their food operating permit.

“Our goal is to enhance the downtown experience for all residents and visitors in a safe and healthy environment while mitigating enforcement as we work together to eliminate hazards,” said Environmental Health Department Deputy Director, Dr. Mark DiMenna. “The Downtown core Mobile Food Establishment parking from Second Street to Eighth Street, between Gold Street and Copper Avenue and was the focal area for the compliance checks over the weekend.”

Last week, EHD sent a letter reminding food truck vendors they are subject to the Food Service and Retail Ordinance — City of Albuquerque prior to the compliance checks over the weekend. As condition of their food vending permit, they must comply with all applicable parking and zoning regulations, to include parking in designated areas, paying metered parking, remain within the boundaries of the painted parking lines, and adhere to applicable noise regulations.

“Downtown is a lively area for our residents to enjoy, especially during the weekends,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “The enforcement and compliance of food establishments allow residents and visitors to enjoy the Downtown area as it is intended.”

Civil violations subject the Permit Holder of the Mobile Food Establishment to the following penalties for offenses:

1. a civil fine of $250.00 for the first offense;
2. a civil fine of $500.00 for the second offense; and
3. a civil fine of $1,000.00 for the third and subsequent offenses.