Calistoga bans food trucks from narrow Wapo Avenue, will review broader ordinance

Calistoga’s City Council on Feb. 27 amended the city’s mobile food vending rules to prohibit food trucks from parking on Wapo Avenue, citing narrow roadway geometry and safety concerns raised by council and residents.

Planning and Building Director Sandra Meyer summarized the ordinance’s background: the food‑truck rules were adopted on Aug. 15, 2023 and implemented in September 2023. The zoning code permits mobile vending in community commercial and light industrial districts and Wapo Avenue lies within the community commercial zone. Council members and members of the public said the street is too narrow and its intersections with Lincoln Avenue present awkward sightlines for turning movements.

Steve Patel, owner/operator of nearby lodging at 1830 Lincoln Avenue, told the council that trucks that park on nearby Brandon Street sometimes end up directly in front of hotel guest rooms, producing noise and visual impact; he said he supports food trucks generally but asked the council to consider guest impacts. Rob Serini urged the council to consider a consolidated food‑truck area (for example at the fairgrounds) with amenities such as picnic tables and sanitation to reduce neighborhood conflicts.

Council discussion focused on preserving support for local businesses while finding a safe, mutually acceptable location for the three permitted trucks. Councilmember Eisenberg noted staff had approved three permits and stressed the need to find a spot for the third vendor if Wapo Avenue is restricted. Mayor Williams moved to waive further reading and adopt the ordinance amendment to prohibit food trucks on Wapo Avenue; Councilmember Gift seconded. The motion passed by voice vote. Councilmembers asked staff to return with additional proposed revisions and alternative locations for the trucks.

The council’s change will amend Calistoga Municipal Code Chapter 5.12 (mobile food vending). Staff will work with the council on follow-up options, including identifying alternative permitted locations, possible map changes to allowable zoning districts, and any needed operational limits to balance vendor rights with neighboring property concerns.