The city of Buellton is exploring allowing permitted food trucks.

The Buellton Planning Commission on Thursday discussed potential food truck rules and limitations, as well as standalone trucks vs. pods — sites on private properties that would allow for permanent food trucks. 

Buellton currently doesn’t allow food trucks, except during special, permitted events.

Surrounding areas such as Santa Maria and Lompoc allow food trucks on public and private properties, while Santa Barbara and Goleta allow them on private properties.

Commission Chair Shannon Reese said the pods make it easier to comply with health and safety standards. 

Vice Chair Daniel Contreras said he was in favor of the pods.

“It brings the community together,” he said. “And it’s specific, it’s isolated, security is better. It just runs a lot better in the pods versus a standalone (truck).”

The commission discussed potential pod locations and showed some support for the Avenue of Flags area and Industrial Way. 

Contreras said the pods shouldn’t be located near Highway 246 and McMurrary Road, due to new buildings and potential traffic. He also opposed them in residential or school areas.

Reese raised concerns about generator noise and amplified music.

Contreras pointed toward modern, quiet generators; however, the commission agreed to make the designated areas nondisruptive, with limitations on amplified music. 

Commissioner Kasey Kump also recommended that the trucks only be operational from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., calling them “temporary in nature.”

Commissioners also supported food truck rules that would create a buffer zone from residential areas.

The trucks must also be within 500 feet of restrooms, comply with Buellton’s “dark sky” ordinance to prevent light pollution and not occupy more than 10% of parking spots available in their lot.

A food truck ordinance recommendation will be presented to the Buellton City Council. After the council offers feedback, the commission will draft a formal ordinance.