Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Tulsa
Display your permit clearly on your truck while operating.
Ensure your food truck meets sanitation requirements, including handwashing stations and waste disposal.
Pass an inspection by the Tulsa Health Department to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Tulsa.
Avoid operating in restricted areas, such as within a specific distance from schools or parks.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a food safety certification course (e.g., ServSafe) before applying for the permit.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Tulsa
Permit Type: Mobile Food Vendor Permit, issued by the City of Tulsa and the Tulsa Health Department.
Steps to Obtain:
Submit an application to the City of Tulsa’s Licensing Division with proof of food safety certification and a valid inspection certificate.
Schedule and pass an inspection with the Tulsa Health Department to ensure food safety, equipment cleanliness, and sanitation practices.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Pay the applicable application and permit fees.
Display the mobile food vendor permit on the truck while operating.
Renew the permit annually.
Unique Rules:
Tulsa operates under specific zoning laws that restrict where food trucks can park, particularly near schools, parks, and residential areas.
Special event permits may be required for operating in high-traffic areas or during festivals and events.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Tulsa
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual inspection by the Tulsa Health Department. Inspections cover food safety practices, cleanliness, food storage, refrigeration, and cooking appliances.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified food safety course (e.g., ServSafe) before applying for the Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration for food storage. The truck must also meet other sanitation and health safety standards as per the Tulsa Health Department.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Tulsa
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with extended hours allowed for special events or in specific districts with special permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Tulsa
Food trucks that use propane, grills, or fryers must schedule an inspection with the Tulsa Fire Department to ensure compliance with local fire safety standards.
Vendors are required to have fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other necessary fire safety equipment.
A fire safety certificate may be required before beginning operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Tulsa
Food trucks are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of a school during school hours without a special permit.
Trucks must comply with Tulsa’s zoning laws, particularly for operating in residential areas, public parks, and near schools.
Special permits may be required for food trucks operating in designated event zones, festivals, or special gatherings.
Vendors are encouraged to review local event schedules and check for any seasonal restrictions on operating hours or locations.
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.