Costs and Available Assistance
There are certain costs involved in operating a Green Cart:
- If you do not already have a valid mobile food vending license, you will need to pay $53 for the Food Protection Course and $50 for your license. A license is valid for 2 years. Renewals cost $50 for each 2-year period, plus a $10 fee for tax clearance. You do not need to take the course again if you renew. Please Read the Steps to Apply for a Mobile Food Vending License.
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- A permit costs $75 and is valid for 2 years. Renewals cost $50 for each 2-year period.
- If you are issued a Green Cart permit, you must buy your own cart and produce. The Health Department must inspect and approve your cart before you operate it. When your cart passes the inspection, the Health Department will give you Green Cart umbrella to display with your produce at no cost to you.
All fees must be paid by check or money order at the City Licensing Center (42 Broadway, 5th floor, in Manhattan). All payments should be made out to “The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.”
Fees for the license and permit are waived for United States Veterans with a New York State Peddler’s Certificate or their surviving spouses or domestic partners with this certificate.
Help is available for start-up costs! The City has partnered with ACCION-USA, a non-profit small business lender, to provide reduced-interest rate loans for Green Cart vendors. Through ACCION, you may qualify for a loan to cover start-up equipment and inventory costs. To apply or learn more, please call 646-833-4527 or 646-833-4542 or visit ACCION-USA.
Green Cart Financing Flyer (PDF)
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Additional Information
