[Free 2025 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in Ohio
Networking with other food truck owners in Ohio can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. Consider the weather and seasonal factors in Ohio when planning the operation schedule and menu for the food truck. In Ohio, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck.
![Fast Track to Six-Figure Food Truck Profit in Ohio [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/aec654_2fe4ee4677da421485db4e5dc0f5d0e1~mv2.jpg/v1/fill/w_562,h_375,al_c,q_80,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/aec654_2fe4ee4677da421485db4e5dc0f5d0e1~mv2.jpg)
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Ohio
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Ohio
In Ohio, registration is required for food trailers. The registration fee for trailers with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 10,000 lbs or less is $46 for a one-year tag. For trailers over 10,000 lbs, the registration fee is $91 for a one-year tag.
To register, you must present a completed application, proof of insurance, and a copy of the title. A bill of sale is required if the trailer was purchased from a private seller. Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration but must meet safety standards.
In Ohio, trailers are typically covered under the towing vehicle’s liability insurance. However, food truck owners are advised to obtain additional insurance to cover the trailer and its contents.
The minimum required liability coverage in Ohio is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Ohio
A Cottage Food Production Operation refers to the production of non-hazardous foods in a home setting, exempt from licensing and inspection requirements. This typically involves making items like baked goods, jams, candies, and similar products in a residential kitchen that has a single stove or oven used for common household cooking, not commercial purposes. These foods must be properly labeled to comply with regulations, or else they risk being considered misbranded or adulterated.
Example of Successful Food Trucks in Ohio
Seven Little Sliders - Food Truck
Sliders
Adam’s Eden Food Truck
American food
Manna Truck
American gourmet sandwiches
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Ohio [2025]
In Ohio, registration is required for food trailers. The registration fee for trailers with a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of 10,000 lbs or less is $46 for a one-year tag. For trailers over 10,000 lbs, the registration fee is $91 for a one-year tag.
To register, you must present a completed application, proof of insurance, and a copy of the title. A bill of sale is required if the trailer was purchased from a private seller. Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration but must meet safety standards.
Find a Food Truck for Sale in Ohio
Ohio Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
Ohio requires food trailers with a GVW over 3,000 lbs to have a separate braking system, either electric or hydraulic.
Trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs are not required to have a braking system, but they must still comply with general safety standards.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Ohio
Ohio mandates that trailers be equipped with two red tail lights visible from 500 feet, amber reflectors on the sides, and functioning turn signals. The trailer must also have at least one safety chain connected to the hitch of the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated for the trailer’s full GVW.
