Pierce County Councilmember Dave Morell has proposed new rules for food stands, carts, tents, booths and kiosks operating without required permits in unincorporated parts of the county. The council’s Public Safety Committee is scheduled to hold a public hearing on the measure at 1:30 p.m. Monday in the council chambers on Market Street in Tacoma, with participation also available by Zoom or phone. The proposal would limit unpermitted vendors to certain hours and locations. They could not operate between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., set up on public streets or sidewalks, or locate within five feet of an alley or driveway. Vendors also could not obstruct traffic or utilities. The rules would apply to non-vehicle food sellers not covered by the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department’s permit system, rather than licensed food trucks. The Pierce County Sheriff’s Office could enforce the restrictions and impound equipment used in violations. Under the proposal, operators who violate the standards could face misdemeanor charges carrying up to $1,000 in fines and 90 days in jail. Owners or employers could face gross-misdemeanor penalties of up to $5,000 and 364 days in jail. The measure would end if a future state law replaced it, though earlier violations could still be prosecuted. Morell said permitting helps ensure food safety and prevents unlicensed sellers from gaining an advantage over businesses that pay for permits and use commercial kitchens. He cited concerns that pop-up operations may lack handwashing facilities, running water, power or reliable temperature control. The health department has reported finding unrefrigerated meat, raw food on the ground and food cooked near garbage at sites connected to roadside vendors. Recent inspections have resulted in violations and food being deemed inedible, according to the department. County food rules generally require food to be prepared in an approved kitchen with appropriate storage and handwashing facilities; permits are required for many prepared foods and products including meat, eggs, fish and dairy. Residents, businesses and community groups can comment at the committee hearing. The proposal has not been approved by the council.