Hot Food Push Carts - Chicago

Why aren't there more Hot Food Push Carts/Stands in Chicago? Are the laws/regulations so much stiffer here than in New York? Other than the Elotes salesmen in the parks, I can't think of seeing other hot foods being sold by carts. I do see quite a few "Roach Coaches" on the street and downtown at lunchtime. I looked at the city's website and didn't see anything specific on the topic. I think they add a lot to the character of Manhattan and serve a pretty darn good dog, occasional soggy bun notwithstanding. When I was younger, I do remember seeing more of them in Chicago, but people also died much younger back then, too....

Just curious

I can't speak to the specific regulations, but I know that Chicago is very strict about food carts. Several wards even ban ice cream trucks and those guys with the bicycle ice cream carts.

I agree that this sucks. I spent a day downtown last winter trying to no avail to find a good old-fashioned chestnut guy. I remember them from only a few years ago.

Chicago regulations require a potable water source to have hot food. This is where the problem is. As far as ic't e cream trucks there are regulations on music but can't recall them off the top of my head.
Paulette

Also a dream of mine, to have a pushcart hotdogger. I had a Chicago style hotdog stand for almost five years in Addison IL. Complete with Fresh cut fries and all. If we do win the bid for the olympics. I will get a pushcart dogger come Hell or High Water. They have so many great builders of those carts nowadays. They will help you work with your health depts codes and all. Yes it is against the law here in Chicago with codes and all. What a shame. I rent out table top Commercial hot dog steamers, bus tray with condiment pans. Dogger tray. Tongs long neck spoons. Celery Salt. Making sure its an official Chicago Style Hot Dog. Great for Back yard parties,Block parties. Still doing Chicago Style Hot Dogs the correct way! Vienna and a MaryAnn bun. Match made in Heaven.