NYC Parks Request for Bid (RFB): Pushcart, Mobile Food Unit or Food Cart

This guide helps you get a permit to run a mobile food unit in NYC parks. This includes:

• Non-processing pushcarts
• Processing food carts
• Mobile trucks

NYC Parks and Recreation asks for bids about twice a year.

There are hundreds of designated sites in NYC parks where you can sell food. You can also ask for a new location. Parks has pre-approved all menu items and maximum prices. You can ask to add new items to your menu.

This guide only covers the parks-related part of getting a Parks permit. The NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) has a different process for food handling licenses and mobile food unit permits.

• For Corporations, LLCs and S-Corps:

  • Stamped copy of Certificate of Incorporation or a filing receipt (by NYS Secretary of State)
  • Copy of a Corporate Resolution or Minutes of Meeting, dated within one year, listing the principal officers

• Proof of home mailing address for the person filing the bid

• Government-issued identification (passport, driver's license or state identification card with photo)

• Completion of W-9 and contract affirmation forms

• List of permit fees:

  • Bid deposit (required at time of submission): amount varies
  • Security deposit (required at time the RFB is awarded): amount varies

• List of accepted payment methods:

  • Certified check (bid deposit, security deposit, monthly fees)
  • Money order (bid deposit, security deposit, monthly fees)
  • Personal check (or business check for monthly fees)

• Bid submission: When you answer a request for bid, you must send a bid deposit and a bid offer, or the fees you intend to pay to Parks for the concession.
• These permits usually last for five years.

1. Review all information in the Request for Bid.
2. Complete all sections of the two-page bid form according to instructions.
3. Notarize all required affidavits before submission.
4. Submit the completed bid in person or by mail to the NYC Parks Revenue Division by the given deadline. No late submissions will be accepted. Submitting the bid in person is preferable so that a receipt can be provided.
5. Submit the bid deposit (rate is different for different RFBs).
6. If you are awarded the permit, respond within the given period of time (typically 30 days) or the permit will be awarded to the next highest bidder.
7. Once awarded the permit, contact the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) to obtain the appropriate DOHMH permits and licenses regarding food establishments.
8. When picking up the permit, present a government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license or state identification card with photo) and pay the security deposit.