Under Scrutiny: Non-Permitted and Unlicensed Hot Food Vendors Operating Nightly in the City of Everett

Today the Washington State Restaurant Fair Play Coalition sent a letter to Mayor Cassie Franklin requesting action on food vendors operating illegally in the City of Everett.

The letter was cc’d to the City Council, Chief of Police, and Snohomish Count Health Department Director as well.

Here’s the letter:

Subject: Urgent Concern: Non-Permitted and Unlicensed Hot Food Vendors Operating Nightly in the City of Everett

Dear Mayor Franklin.

As Chair of the Washington State Restaurant Fair Play Coalition, I am writing to bring to your attention a growing public health and business compliance issue within the City of Everett. Please find our official letter attached for your reference.

Each night—typically beginning around 7:00 p.m. and continuing until approximately 2:00 a.m.—3 unlicensed “pop-up” taco stands operate throughout the city of Everett. These vendors lack City business licenses and Snohomish County Health Department food permits. They often set up on both public and private property without authorization, using makeshift equipment that does not meet basic health and safety standards—lacking essentials such as running water, refrigeration, and proper sanitation.

They operate illegally nightly at the following 3 Everett locations:

• 404 128th St SW, Everett, WA 98204
• 11918 Airport Rd, Everett, 98204
• 410 SW Everett Mall Way, Everett, WA 98204

Requested Action
On behalf of our coalition, we respectfully request the following:

1. Immediate enforcement of the Everett Municipal Code Chapter 5.36. to halt these illegal food vending operations.
2. Coordination with Snohomish County Health Department, Seattle Police, Seattle Fire and relevant state agencies to ensure sustained compliance and ongoing enforcement efforts.

We would welcome the opportunity to meet with you or a member of your team to discuss how these unlawful vendors are compromising public health and undermining legitimate businesses that comply with licensing and safety regulations.

We are confident that the City of Everett will take swift and appropriate action. However, if these illegal operations persist without meaningful enforcement, our coalition will be compelled to explore all legal and administrative remedies available under municipal and state law.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

Sincerely,
Josiah Gaytán
Chairperson, Washington State Restaurant Fair Play Coalition