Vermilion welcomes food trucks

Editor's note: Joseph Jones is a Register correspondent representing vermiliondaily.com. VERMILION — Vermilion officials are opening the city's parks to food trucks under a recently promoted law designed to encourage small business growth and enhance community events. Legislation approved by the city council in September establishes clear guidelines for mobile food vendors operating on public property. Although this ordinance has been in place for several months, officials only recently began promoting it. The timing likely coincides with the completion of major park improvement projects. With several of Vermilion's most popular public spaces newly renovated or nearing the end of construction, the moment appears right to welcome food trucks into the fold. Vendors are now permitted to operate at five designated public locations with a $75 annual permit: • Victory Park • Sherod Park • Showse Park • The community swimming pool • The boat launch off West River The updated policy is intended to provide consistency, improve access and attract more visitors to public parks and seasonal events. It offers vendors a low barrier to entry while ensuring health, fire, and zoning codes are followed. Mobile food vendors may also operate on private property — such as church lots, business plazas or community fundraisers — with the owner's permission. A valid city-issued food truck permit is still required, and vendors must meet all regulatory standards. With summer events approaching and park renovations wrapping up, the city's promotion of this law is expected to bring new energy to Vermilion's outdoor spaces. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to dining options at the city's parks as vendors decide to give Vermilion a try.