Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Athens
Display all required permits and certificates visibly on the truck during operation.
Operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a certified food safety course and provide proof of certification.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Athens-Clarke County.
Comply with Athens-Clarke County’s zoning, parking, and time-based regulations for food trucks.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Athens-Clarke County Health Department or the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).
Submit a completed mobile food vending application, including required documentation such as a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and health inspection certificate.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Athens
To legally operate a food truck in Athens, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Athens-Clarke County. The application process includes submitting a completed form, valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection conducted by the Athens-Clarke County Health Department or the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). Food trucks must also operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. Athens-Clarke County enforces zoning and parking regulations, specifying where food trucks can park and operate, especially near schools, residential areas, and other restricted zones. All necessary permits and certificates must be prominently displayed on the truck during operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$515
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Athens
Food trucks in Athens must pass an inspection conducted by the Athens-Clarke County Health Department or the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). Inspections focus on food safety, including food storage, cleanliness, and cooking equipment safety. Operators must complete a certified food safety course before applying for the permit. The truck must include handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and comply with health code standards for refrigeration and food safety equipment. All food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Athens
Food trucks in Athens can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but extended hours may be allowed for special events or in designated areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Athens
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Athens-Clarke County Fire Department. The fire department ensures that food trucks comply with local fire safety standards, including having fire extinguishers and suppression systems. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating, especially for trucks using propane or other heating equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Athens
Food trucks in Athens must comply with local zoning regulations, which restrict where food trucks can operate, particularly near schools, hospitals, or residential areas. Trucks must follow parking and time-based regulations. Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in city festivals, fairs, or other public events. Vendors are encouraged to check with the City of Athens-Clarke County for additional location-specific and event-related requirements or restrictions.
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.