If you are considering launching a mobile business (street-food, beverage service, pop-up on a bike or cargo bike), it is essential to understand two key aspects:
- the general regulatory framework
- how it is applied in the specific municipality (e.g. Rome)
General principles
- Each municipality can regulate street trading on public land in mobile for, using a movable vehicle, without a fixed pitch, according to national and regional law.
- The rules (type of vehicle allowed, where it may operate, for how long) vary from one municipality to another.
- Certain areas may be restricted or prohibited (environmental protection areas, parks, historic centers, protected sites).
- If the activity involves food and beverages, health and hygiene regulations and public health authorizations (ASL) also apply.
- If the area is managed by a special authority (e.g. park, reserve, environmental agency), additional regulations may apply beyond municipal rules.
The case of Rome
In the Municipality of Rome, regulation includes a few key points:
• Mobile street trading is permitted “without a fixed pitch” on public land where it is not expressly prohibited.
https://www.comune.roma.it/web/it/scheda-servizi.page?contentId=INF59693
• Mobile trading is prohibited in certain districts or special areas for historical, artistic or archaeological protection.
https://www.comune.roma.it/web/it/scheda-servizi.page?contentId=INF59693&pagina=4
• Mobile sales must be carried out using a movable vehicle. Stopping is only allowed for the time strictly necessary to carry out sales/delivery, and always in compliance with the Highway Code.
https://www.comune.roma.it/web/it/scheda-servizi.page?contentId=INF59693&pagina=5
• A specific authorization for mobile street trading on public land is required via the competent SUAP office.
https://www.comune.roma.it/web/it/scheda-servizi.page?contentId=INF63032
• Food and beverage service requires additional authorizations issued by the Municipality.
https://www.comune.roma.it/web/it/scheda-servizi.page?contentId=INF44858
Practical tips
• Contact the commerce/public land office of the relevant Rome district to verify whether the specific area where you intend to operate is permitted or restricted.
• If operating in a protected area or park managed by an authority other than the Municipality, check for additional regulations.
• Verify all technical, hygiene and authorization requirements before building or purchasing the vehicle.
