Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Joliet
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 conducted by the Will County Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending License from the City of Joliet.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of Joliet 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 Joliet
Mobile Food Vending License: To operate a food truck in Joliet, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vending License through the City of Joliet. The application includes submitting the required forms, proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Will County Health Department. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks in Joliet must pass an inspection conducted by the Will County Health Department. Inspections ensure compliance with food safety regulations such as food handling, storage, refrigeration, and sanitation. A health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must obtain a business license from the City of Joliet, which ensures legal operation within the city limits. This license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Joliet has specific zoning regulations that govern where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks must operate in designated food truck zones or receive special approval for certain locations. Restrictions apply to operating near schools, residential areas, or other sensitive areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Joliet
Inspections: All food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Will County Health Department. Inspections check for compliance with food safety standards, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and food handling procedures.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a food safety certification course approved by the state of Illinois. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and meet all sanitation and food safety standards. They must also operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Joliet
Food trucks can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., although these hours may vary based on location-specific rules or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Joliet
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (such as grills, fryers) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Joliet Fire Department. This inspection ensures the truck meets fire safety standards, including fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Joliet
Food trucks are 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. These events may have additional rules or requirements for vendors.
Food trucks must comply with Joliet’s zoning codes, which regulate where they can park, operate, and the hours they can operate in designated areas.
Vendors are encouraged to follow sustainability practices to minimize environmental impact, including waste management and recycling efforts.
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.