Nashville
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Nashville
Comply with Zoning and Location Restrictions, particularly near schools, residential areas, and high-traffic zones.
Register for a Business License with the City of Nashville.
Pass an Initial Health Inspection to ensure compliance with food safety and equipment standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit from the Metro Public Health Department.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a Certified Food Protection Course before submitting your application.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Nashville
To operate a food truck in Nashville, operators must obtain several permits and licenses:
Mobile Food Vending Permit: This permit is issued by the Metro Public Health Department and is required for food trucks. The application process involves submitting necessary documentation, completing health inspections, and paying fees. The permit must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification course, approved by the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH), before applying for the food truck permit.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen where food is prepared, stored, and waste is disposed of. Proof of this arrangement must be submitted with the permit application.
Business License: A business license is required for food trucks operating within Nashville. This is obtained from the Metro Government Business License Division.
Zoning and Location Permits: Nashville has specific zoning laws that regulate where food trucks can operate. Operators must comply with these laws, particularly around schools, parks, and in high-traffic areas. Some areas may require special permits or location-based approval.
Cost of Business Permit
$200 - $400
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Nashville
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an initial health inspection conducted by the Metro Public Health Department. Inspections include checks for food storage, cleanliness, equipment standards (refrigeration, cooking appliances), and sanitation practices.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Course approved by the Tennessee Department of Health before applying for the mobile food vending permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and proper refrigeration. These features are necessary to comply with local health codes and will be inspected during the application process.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Nashville
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m.. However, extended hours may apply in certain entertainment districts or with special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Nashville
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment such as grills, propane tanks, or deep fryers must undergo an inspection with the Nashville Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and safety measures. A fire safety certificate is required for trucks with cooking equipment before they can operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Nashville
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours, unless special permission is obtained.
Zoning and Location Restrictions: Food trucks must comply with Nashville’s zoning laws, which regulate the areas in which trucks can park and operate. Restrictions apply to high-traffic areas, residential zones, and certain public spaces.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks participating in festivals, fairs, or other public events may require additional event permits. Event organizers typically handle these permits and guidelines.
Street Parking Compliance: Food trucks must comply with Nashville’s street parking regulations, which may include time-based or location-specific restrictions. Vendors should ensure they are parked in legal spaces to avoid fines or penalties.
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.