Sunnyvale
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Sunnyvale
Renew permits and inspections annually to remain compliant.
Ensure the food truck complies with zoning and location regulations, operating only in approved areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection by the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health.
Obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit from the City of Sunnyvale.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of Sunnyvale and obtain a business license.
Complete a Food Safety Certification from a state-approved course.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Sunnyvale
Mobile Food Facility Permit: To operate a food truck in Sunnyvale, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Facility Permit from the City of Sunnyvale. The application process includes submitting required forms, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: All food trucks must pass an inspection conducted by the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health. The inspection ensures compliance with food safety regulations such as food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment. The health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must also obtain a business license from the City of Sunnyvale. This ensures the food truck is legally authorized to operate within the city and must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Sunnyvale has specific zoning laws that dictate where food trucks can operate. Food trucks must park in designated food truck zones, on private property with permission, or in areas approved by the city. Restrictions apply to operating near schools, residential areas, or other sensitive locations.
Cost of Business Permit
$350
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Sunnyvale
Inspections: Food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Santa Clara County Department of Environmental Health. Inspections focus on food handling, storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment compliance.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored and served at safe temperatures. They must also operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Sunnyvale
Food trucks can operate from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., although hours may vary depending on location-specific rules or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Sunnyvale
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (such as grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety. The inspection ensures the truck meets fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate is required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Sunnyvale
Food trucks are generally prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours unless authorized by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. Event-specific rules may apply for permits, operation hours, and locations.
Food trucks must comply with Sunnyvale’s zoning codes for parking, operational areas, and time-based restrictions.
Sustainability: The city encourages food truck operators to follow sustainable practices, including waste management, recycling, and reducing environmental impact.
The information on this page is collected through collaboration with local food truck owners and occasional voluntary submissions from local government and health officials. Food Truck Profit is not a government agency and cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information. All food truck owners are strongly encouraged to consult directly with local government officials, including fire and health departments, to ensure compliance with all regulations. Food Truck Profit assumes no liability for errors or omissions in the content provided.