Why is the City proposing this ordinance? 
To support public safety, emergency access, mobility management, and orderly operations during global-scale events that bring heavy crowds, media, and commercial activity. 

Will this affect residents and businesses? 
Only those located in or adjacent to the Special Event Zone, and only during activation periods. 

Can existing businesses keep their current signs during the Special Event Zone activation period?
Yes. All existing, legally permitted permanent signs on a business may remain in place during the Special Event Zone activation period. This includes monument signs, wall signs, window signs, and any other signage previously approved through the City’s normal permitting process. 

Can businesses put up temporary signs, banners, or promotional materials?
Temporary commercial signs, such as banners, flags, inflatables, portable signs, LED displays, or promotional wraps, are not allowed within the Special Event Zone unless they: 

1. Qualify as exempt signs under Santa Clara Zoning Code §18.42.070, or

2. Have received a valid sign permit from the City under Zoning Code Chapter 18.42. 

If a business would like to install temporary signage for event-related promotions or special offerings, they must apply for a sign permit in advance and receive approval before installation. 

Can I operate my vending business inside the Special Event Zone during activation periods?
No. During the activation periods for Super Bowl LX and the FIFA World Cup, peddlers and mobile vendors are not permitted to operate within the Special Event Zone, even if they hold a valid sidewalk vending permit. This temporary pause applies only to the Zone and only for the duration of the event period. 

Can I operate my vending business outside the Special Event Zone during activation periods? 
Yes. Vendors may operate anywhere outside the Special Event Zone as long as they comply with all requirements of Santa Clara City Code Chapter 5.05. This includes: 

• Holding a valid vending permit 

• Complying with all distance, placement, and safety requirements 

• Following County health and food-handling rules 

Your permit remains fully valid outside the Special Event Zone. 

Can I move to another permitted location during activation periods?
Yes. If your current operating location is inside the Special Event Zone, you may: 

• Operate at any alternate permitted location listed on your permit, or 

• Request information on other permissible areas outside the Zone. 

The pause applies only to vending within the Zone—not citywide. 

Why are vendors restricted from operating in the Zone?
The City is implementing the ordinance to: 

• Maintain emergency access 

• Support crowd safety and congestion management 

• Prevent conflicts with security screening and pedestrian surges 

• Reduce risks of counterfeit or unsafe products 

Are the regulations permanent? 
No. They are temporary, geographically limited, and tied only to major events. 

Where can I read the full ordinance?
View the ordinance adopted on December 16, 2025