Application for street vending

Applications for street vending permits are evaluated based on the appearance and how the vending facilities fit into the local environment. The diversity and variety of available products and services, and the applicant's previous experience with similar activities is also evaluated.

How to apply for a permit?

An invoice for the rental fee will be sent to the account holder on My Pages.

Organizations that apply must have an account in their own name. The rental fee is charged through the applicant's online bank.

The operating year of street and square vending is from May 15 each year to May 14 the following year.

New applications will be accepted as of February 15, 2023 at 9 am for the operating year 2023-2024. Applications received before that date are not accepted.

Vending activities

  • All food vending must be authorized by Reykjavík Public Health Authority.
  • The rental fee is not refundable.
  • The categorization of vending facilities is determined by the location chosen each time.
  • Each vendor may have a maximum of two permits in the city center, but only one nighttime permit.
  • It is important for the merchandise for sale to supplement the existing product range of nearby shops and service providers.

This Resolution does not apply to other aspects of vending activities at events organized by private parties. Information on such vending activities can be obtained by emailing menning@reykjavik.is.

Access to electricity

Applicants requiring electricity shall indicate the level of energy required in their operation and submit a certification from the inspection body to that effect. The permit holder pays for electricity usage.

Electricity is available at the following locations:

  • Bernhöftstorfa
  • Skólavörðuholt
  • Ingólfstorg
  • Hlemmur
  • Hljómskálagarður
  • Lækjargata
  • Lækjartorg
  • Mæðragarður
  • by the Nordic House
  • Klambratún and
  • Vitatorg Parking Garage

Supporting documents

The application must include:

  • The requested vending area
  • The size and overall dimensions (length x width x height) of the vending facility
  • The weight of the vending facilities
  • The location of sales outlet
  • Information about the refuse container
  • The energy source
  • The electricity demand (kW), where applicable, according to certificate from an inspection office
  • Photos of the vending facilities
  • Photos of the vending area when applying for a district area
  • A description of how vending facilities are brought to and from the vending area
  • Information about where vending facilities are stored outside opening hours

Permit holders can cancel their permit if they haven't started vending activities within one month of signing the contract.