Food trucks can operate near residential parks as part of pilot project

Food trucks and trailers will be able to serve food near Saskatoon parks this summer as part of a pilot project approved by city council.

The new move comes with restrictions after a lengthy discussion during Monday’s city council meeting. Trucks will not being allowed to operate near a park if there is a community event raising money through food vendors. Council included the amendment to ensure food truck sales don’t monopolize sales from community fundraisers. There will also be a distance requirement from where the truck is parked in relation to concessions.

Jason Evanochko, a co-owner of Smoke’s Poutinerie, told city council there isn’t a clear definition of what a food truck. His company operates a food trailer and since it’s not defined as a truck, there are limitations to where they can park and operate. He said it restricts the company’s business and prevents them from being able to hire more employees.

Council voted in favour of food trailers being part of the pilot project, which runs for the 2017 season. City council expects there to be between 10 and 12 food trucks running during that time.