Deadwood city commissioners have advanced Ordinance 1434, which regulates food truck operations within city limits following three meetings of a task force made up of business owners, community members, food truck operators, and city officials.
The ordinance, heard in its second reading on October 20, outlines when and where food trucks can operate, requires permits—including from the Deadwood Volunteer Fire Department for solid fuel use—and bans the sale of alcoholic beverages.
Planning and Zoning Director Kevin Kuchenbecker said the goal is to balance support for brick-and-mortar restaurants with opportunities for mobile vendors, especially during peak tourism seasons. “We wanted to ensure all businesses had a voice while expanding food options for residents and visitors,” he said.
Previously limited to the Pluma area, food trucks will now be eligible to operate on public and private property depending on event schedules. Residential zones remain off-limits, but approved locations include hotel parking lots during special events and designated public lots during non-event weekends.
Non-profits may also apply to use the Interpretive Center lot for fundraising during events. The ordinance takes effect 20 days after its second reading.
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