Thinking about launching your own business on the streets of New York City, but feeling stuck because the General Vendor license is nearly impossible to get these days? With limited availability and a years-long waitlist, it’s one of the toughest permits to secure in the city. But here’s the good news: You don’t need a General Vendor license to sell at street fairs and night markets.
Selling at street fairs and night markets is an accessible alternative for aspiring small business owners, artists, crafters, or food vendors. It requires a few easier, more achievable permits and some basic prep.
To support individuals interested in starting as street fair or market vendors, the Business Outreach Center at CMP, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting workforce and small business development, recently hosted a webinar on this very topic. Drawing from that information, we’ve put together this simple, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process and become a successful vendor.
Get the Sales Tax ID (Certificate of Authority)
To begin, all vendors — whether selling apparel, handmade goods, or prepared food — are required to obtain a Sales Tax ID, officially known as a Certificate of Authority. This certificate authorizes you to collect and remit sales tax in the State of New York, regardless of the size or duration of your operation, including temporary setups at street fairs.
You can apply for the Certificate of Authority through the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website. You must apply at least 20 days before you make any taxable sale. If you’re applying as an individual, you’ll need to provide your Social Security number to obtain a Sales Tax ID.
Vendors participating in street fairs are no longer required to obtain a Temporary Vendor Permit from the NYC Department of Consumer and Worker Protection. Therefore, if you are selling non-food items, the Certificate of Authority is the only permit you need in order to participate as a vendor at street fairs.
Additional permits required for food vendors
If you plan to sell any type of food — whether it’s prepackaged snacks, cooked meals, or items prepared on-site — you’ll need a few additional permits to comply with New York City’s health regulations.
First, you must obtain a Food Protection Certificate from the NYC Department of Health. This certification verifies that you have completed the mandatory training in proper food safety and handling procedures. Once issued, the certificate is valid for life and is a critical credential for anyone preparing or serving food to the public. You can apply and register through the official NYC Business portal.
Applicants have the option to complete the course either in person or online, with fees set at $114 for the in-person course and $24 for the online version. The in-person course is available in English, Bangla, and Spanish, while the online course is offered in English, Spanish, and Chinese. To ensure accessibility, the final exam and study guides are available in 37 different languages for both course formats.
In addition, you’ll need a Temporary Food Service Establishment (TFSE) Permit, also issued by the Department of Health. This permit authorizes you to operate a temporary food booth at events such as street fairs, festivals, and night markets within the city. You can apply and register through the official NYC Business portal.
The TFSE Permit is valid for one year from the date of issuance and carries a fee of $70. If you intend to serve frozen desserts, an additional $25 fee applies. It’s important to note that this is a non-renewable permit, meaning you must submit a new application each year after your current permit expires.
Select an event organizer and submit your application
Most street fairs and night markets in New York City are organized by licensed production companies that handle event logistics, vendor coordination, and permitting. Two of the most prominent organizers recommended by the CMP Business Outreach Center are Clearview Festival Productions and Mardi Gras Productions. To participate in their events, vendors are typically required to pay an annual membership fee, along with a separate participation fee for each individual event they plan to attend.
These companies offer access to multiple fairs across the city throughout the year, making them a convenient option if you plan to sell at several locations. You can browse their event calendars and submit applications directly through their websites.
In addition to these organized street fairs, there are independently operated markets that do not go through production companies. Two highly popular examples include the Queens Night Market and Smorgasburg. These markets manage their own vendor application processes, and you can apply directly through their respective websites.
Whether you choose to work with a production company or apply directly to independent events, it’s a good idea to explore a variety of markets to find the ones that best align with your products and audience.
Prepare for the market day
Once you’ve been approved as a vendor, it’s time to focus on setting up a booth that’s both functional and inviting. A clean, professional, and thoughtfully designed setup can go a long way in attracting customers and boosting sales.
Start with the basics: bring a durable tent or canopy to define your space and provide shelter from the sun or rain. A sturdy table and any display stands or shelving will help you organize and showcase your products effectively. Thoughtful touches like branded banners, flags, or signage can make your booth stand out and create a strong visual identity.
Plan your inventory based on the size and type of crowd expected at the event. Be sure every item is clearly priced, and use signage that highlights product names, pricing, and any promotions or deals to catch the attention of potential buyers. Also, bring enough packaging materials, such as bags, boxes, or wrapping paper, so that customers can carry their purchases easily and securely.
Setting up a dependable payment system is equally important. If you’re accepting cash, bring plenty of change in small bills. For added convenience — and to boost sales — consider using a mobile card reader so customers can pay by credit or debit card, which shoppers increasingly prefer.
Keep all necessary documentation on hand, including your permits and a copy of your vendor application. It’s also wise to have the contact information for the event organizer available in case of issues.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Bring a foldable chair so you can take breaks when needed, along with snacks and water to stay fueled throughout the day. And since weather can be unpredictable, pack appropriately — sidewalls, fans, heaters, or tarps can make all the difference in staying comfortable and keeping your setup secure.
Need help? Free assistance is available
If you have questions about permits, vendor requirements, or any other aspect of participating in street fairs and markets, free assistance is available to help guide you through the process.
You can contact Janice Zhu, Business Counselor at the CMP Business Outreach Center, at 646-603-7172 or by emailing janicezhu@cmpny.org.
