Compact Mobile Food Operations (CMFO)

Senate Bill 972 (Gonzalez) was enacted and became effective January 1, 2023. This new bill changes the California Retail Food Code by establishing a new Chapter in the California Retail Food Code (CRFC) titled “Compact Mobile Food Operations.” These changes were intended to promote economic inclusion while modernizing the CRFC so that sidewalk food vendors can obtain a permit and join the regulated vending economy.

Looking to start a Compact Mobile Food Operation (CMFO)?

Review the presentation slides or listen to a recording in English or Spanish in the resource library below to learn more.

What is a CMFO?

The new type of food facility is called a Compact Mobile Food Operation (CMFO). A CMFO is a type of mobile food facility that operates from any of the following:

• An individual, stand, showcase, rack or display – may be exempt from permitting if offering less than 25 square feet of prepackaged non-potentially hazardous food.
• A stand, showcase, rack or display – limited to the sale of prepackaged non-potentially hazardous foods.
• A pushcart, pedal-driven cart, wagon or other nonmotorized conveyance – may be approved for limited food preparation.

A CMFO:

• Must meet all the requirements listed in Chapter 10 (Mobile Food Facilities), except as provided for in the new Chapter 11.7 (Compact Mobile Food Operations).
• Is required to operate in conjunction with a commissary, mobile support unit or other facility approved by the enforcement agency.

A CMFO is not:

• A pop-up tent with multiple pieces of equipment set up. All equipment must be integral as part of a pushcart, pedal-driven cart, wagon, or other nonmotorized conveyance.
• Motorized Mobile Food Facility.

How to apply for a CMFO

1. Review the Matrix
2. Read Storage and Commissary Guidelines
3. Review Prepackaged Cart or Unpackaged Cart Requirements
4. Submit a CMFO Application
5. Read Frequently Asked Questions
6. Sign up for important Environmental Health Services CMFO updates

All documents can be downloaded in the resource library below.

For more information on CMFO requirements, please contact San Mateo County Environmental Health Services Food Program at envhealth@smcgov.org or 650-372-6200.