New York City Raises the Cap on Permits for Street Vendors NYT | Top Stories By: Samantha Latson 19 December 2025 at 08:48 The legislation, which will make thousands more permits available, is part of a package of City Council bills aimed at helping the city’s vendors get on the right side of the law. © Marco Postigo Storel for The New York TimesFood carts and other street vendors are a ubiquitous sight in New York City, but many operators are unable to obtain permits.