Equipment & Supplies

Everett, Washington passes ordinance approving jail time for unapproved food trucks

Photo: Adobe Stock

February 25, 2026

Summarize with

The Everett City Council has passed an ordinance that states operators of unpermitted food stands or food trucks can face jail time. This is part of an effort to crack down on food trucks and stands that skirt safety regulations, according to a report by King 5.

The ordinance makes it a misdemeanor punishable of up to a $5,000 fine, confiscation of equipment or a year in jail. These unapproved food operations often do not have proper hand-washing, refrigeration or heating elements, which often cause illnesses.

Christopher Hylton, owner of food truck Jamaican Jerk Shack, said he experienced a lot of competition from these unregistered food stands and is glad about the new ordinance.

"I go through the right process. None of us are different. We're all equal," Hylton said. "All of us should go through the same process to get whatever we need to start whatever business."