[Free 2025 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in North Dakota
Networking with other food truck owners in North Dakota can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. In North Dakota, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck. One should identify strategic locations and events in North Dakota that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business.
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Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in North Dakota
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in North Dakota
In North Dakota, food trailers must be registered if they have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 3,000 lbs or more. The registration fee for trailers under 10,000 lbs is $75 for a one-year tag, while trailers over 10,000 lbs pay a $150 fee for a two-year registration.
To register, you must provide a completed Title and Registration Application (Form SFN 2872), proof of insurance, and proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or manufacturer’s certificate). If you are transferring a trailer from another state, you must also provide a VIN verification.
Food trailers in North Dakota are typically covered under the towing vehicle's liability insurance; however, it is strongly recommended that you obtain additional insurance for the trailer itself, especially for comprehensive and collision coverage.
The state mandates a minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident. Additional coverage may be necessary to protect valuable food equipment or the trailer.
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in North Dakota
A cottage food operator is someone who prepares or packages certain types of food in a kitchen meant for personal use within a private home. These operators typically create their goods in small quantities, complying with specific regulations that permit them to sell directly to consumers without needing a commercial kitchen. The focus is on homemade, small-scale production, often involving items like baked goods, jams, or other non-perishable food items.
Example of Successful Food Trucks in North Dakota
Little Bangkok
Thai food
York's Barbeque Pit
BBQ
Tacos La Mexicana LLC
Mexican food
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in North Dakota [2025]
In North Dakota, food trailers must be registered if they have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 3,000 lbs or more. The registration fee for trailers under 10,000 lbs is $75 for a one-year tag, while trailers over 10,000 lbs pay a $150 fee for a two-year registration.
To register, you must provide a completed Title and Registration Application (Form SFN 2872), proof of insurance, and proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or manufacturer’s certificate). If you are transferring a trailer from another state, you must also provide a VIN verification.
Find a Food Truck for Sale in North Dakota
North Dakota Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
North Dakota requires food trailers with a GVWR of 3,000 lbs or more to have a separate braking system. Electric brakes are the most commonly used and are acceptable.
Trailers with a GVWR under 3,000 lbs do not require a separate braking system. However, if the trailer is over 10,000 lbs, a backup braking system is also required for additional safety.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in North Dakota
In North Dakota, food trailers must be equipped with two red tail lights visible from at least 500 feet and amber reflectors on both sides. Trailers must also have functional turn signals, brake lights, and at least one safety chain to connect the trailer to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the full GVWR of the trailer. Additional lighting requirements include rear marker lights for trailers over 16 feet in length.
