Food Truck Regulations and Permits

Food Truck Regulations and Permits

Food trucks are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you’re selling food on the streets or at a special event, you must be aware of the legal requirements of establishing a food truck. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of food truck regulations and permits. Let’s jump right in!

Food Truck Regulations

• Apply for a parking permit
• Always keep your truck clean
• Make sure you’re following the rules of the food truck festival you want to sell at
• Have a serving counter and sink
• Keep the operation in compliance with state and county regulations 
• Have an effective customer communication system in place
• Designate proper storage space for the truck and all equipment before operating
• Stay away from construction zones
• Keep fuel levels more than half full at all times
• Maintain correct temperature for foods

What Licenses and Permits Are Needed to Establish a Food Truck?

Ensure that you have obtained all necessary licenses and permits before starting operations. Food truck operators must follow a strict set of health and safety guidelines to provide high-quality food consistently. So, what licenses and permits do you need to operate a food truck? Here they are.

A Business License

Each business must obtain a license from the city government before operating within the city. The business license fee is $50 for the first year and $10 for each renewal period. 

A license guarantees that the business has proper facilities and equipment for operation. The business owner is responsible for making all necessary arrangements with the city government for obtaining the required permits or licenses before beginning any business activity within the city.

Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Employer Identification Number is mandatory for all food service businesses that serve customers at least twice a month. The EIN is a unique identification number for the food truck business.

It identifies the food truck business on legal documents, such as utility bills and reimbursement documents issued by the government. Food trucks serve customers at only one location per week, so they should have a physical office space that matches their kitchen’s layout.

Driver’s License

It’s mandatory for any person taking part in activities that involve the use of public transportation to carry valid travel documents, such as a driving license. That includes drivers of food trucks.

A Food Handler’s Permit

There are two types of food handler’s permits: an end table permit and a portable unit permit. 

The former is for vendors who intend to set up a permanent structure in a public place used for civilian purposes. The latter is for those who wish to place their food trucks within private property. 

Health Department Permit

All food truck locations must obtain a local health department permit before operating. The local health department assesses the site’s sanitation and wastewater treatment facilities compared to neighboring localities. It ensures that food trucks don’t bring diseases into the local community.

Conclusion

The food truck industry is growing fast. Businesses are establishing themselves in residential areas and commercial districts everywhere. Food trucks serve as an alternative to brick-and-mortar businesses that provide catering and food services monthly.