Minneapolis
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Minneapolis
Display all necessary permits and licenses visibly on your truck during operation.
Ensure your food truck meets sanitation standards, including handwashing stations, waste disposal, and food storage.
Pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Minneapolis Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending License from the City of Minneapolis.
Follow zoning and location rules; avoid restricted zones such as areas near schools or parks.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe) before applying for the license.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Minneapolis
Permit Type: Mobile Food Vending License issued by the City of Minneapolis.
Steps to Obtain:
Submit a completed application along with proof of food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe).
Pass a health inspection from the Minneapolis Health Department, covering food safety and sanitation standards.
Provide proof that your truck uses a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Pay applicable fees and submit any additional required documentation (e.g., vehicle registration, insurance).
Renew permits annually.
Unique Rules:
Operators must comply with Minneapolis zoning laws and only operate in designated areas where mobile food vendors are allowed.
Specific rules apply to operating near schools, parks, or residential areas. A special event permit may be required for certain areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Minneapolis
Inspections: Annual inspections are required, conducted by the Minneapolis Health Department. Inspections check for food safety, refrigeration, cleanliness, and proper sanitation practices.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified Food Protection Manager course (e.g., ServSafe) before applying for the Mobile Food Vending License.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration for food storage. Additional safety and sanitation measures may be required based on the inspection.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Minneapolis
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with special permits required for late-night events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Minneapolis
Food trucks with cooking equipment (grills, fryers, propane tanks) must schedule an inspection with the Minneapolis Fire Department.
Vendors must have fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and meet local fire safety standards.
A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Minneapolis
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours.
Certain areas (such as parks and residential zones) may have restrictions on food truck operations.
Trucks must comply with Minneapolis’ zoning regulations, which govern where vendors can park and operate.
Special permits are required for food trucks operating in high-traffic or special event zones.
Vendors are encouraged to check for seasonal restrictions or changes to operating rules during events, festivals, or city permits.
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.