Vendors at the Burlingame Farmers Market will no longer be allowed to cook, grill, or fry food in the new Town Square starting in August, under a policy drafted by the Burlingame/SFO Chamber of Commerce.

The draft Burlingame Farmers Market Town Square Vendor Operating Policy, included in the City Council Economic Development Subcommittee's meeting packet for Thursday, August 6, protects the plaza's tile surface and limits the Town Square to artisan, retail, and specialty food vendors selling packaged or pre-prepared products. Vendors who need cooking equipment or grease-producing operations will be assigned to other areas of the market.

The policy requires every Town Square vendor to lay a protective tarp or floor covering beneath their booth. Vendors are liable for any stains, spills, grease, or other damage to the tiles. No vehicles are allowed on the square.

Placement in the Town Square is by invitation or approval of the Chamber, based on product mix, customer experience, and available space. Enforcement escalates from verbal warnings to written notices, relocation, suspension, and ultimately removal from the market.

Vice Mayor Andrea Pappajohn and Councilmember Donna Colson, who make up the subcommittee, will discuss the policy Thursday, August 6 at 8:30 a.m. in Conference Room A at City Hall, 501 Primrose Road. The meeting is also available via Zoom.