Lafayette
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Lafayette
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 Lafayette.
Comply with Lafayette’s zoning, parking, and time-based regulations for food trucks.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Lafayette Health Department or the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
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 Lafayette
Food trucks in Lafayette must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Lafayette. The application includes submitting a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection conducted by the Lafayette Health Department or the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). Food trucks must also operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. The city enforces specific zoning and parking regulations that restrict where food trucks can operate, including near schools, residential areas, or other restricted zones. All necessary permits and certificates must be displayed on the truck while it is in operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Lafayette
Food trucks in Lafayette must pass a health inspection conducted by the Lafayette Health Department or the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH). Inspections focus on food storage, cleanliness, and the safety of cooking equipment. Operators are required to complete a certified food safety course before applying for the permit. Trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and comply with health code standards for refrigeration and other food safety equipment. Food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Lafayette
Food trucks in Lafayette are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but extended hours may be allowed for special events or high-traffic zones.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Lafayette
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Lafayette Fire Department. The fire department ensures that food trucks meet local fire safety standards, including having fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other necessary equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating, particularly for trucks using propane or other heating equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Lafayette
Food trucks in Lafayette must comply with local zoning laws, which may restrict where they can operate, particularly near schools, residential zones, or public spaces. The city also enforces parking regulations, and food trucks are generally prohibited from operating in restricted or private areas without prior authorization. Vendors must apply for event-specific permits to operate at public events, festivals, or street fairs. It's important for food truck operators to review the City of Lafayette regulations and consult the Lafayette Health Department for any specific location-based or event-related requirements and updates to city ordinances.
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.