Arlington
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Arlington
Display permits visibly on the truck.
Ensure compliance with fire safety requirements (817-459-5539).
Verify zoning compliance with Arlington Planning and Development Services (817-459-6502).
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from Tarrant County Public Health.
Secure liability insurance and food handler certifications.
Apply for a Temporary Mobile Food Unit Permit via ArlingtonPermits.com for short-term events.
Schedule and pass a health inspection.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Arlington
Food trucks in Arlington, Texas, require several permits to operate legally:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: Issued by the City of Arlington, this permit authorizes the operation of a food truck within city limits.
Health Permit: A health inspection by the Arlington Health Department is mandatory. This inspection ensures that the food truck complies with safety standards for food storage, handling, and sanitation.
Sales Tax Permit: Required by the State of Texas for collecting sales tax on food sold from the truck.
Commissary Kitchen Use: Food trucks must store and prepare food in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Submit an application to the city, including a description of the food truck and its operations.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Arlington Health Department.
Ensure compliance with fire safety requirements.
Obtain a sales tax permit from the state.
Submit proof of commissary kitchen usage.
Unique Conditions: Certain areas in Arlington may have zoning restrictions or time-based restrictions where food trucks cannot operate. Ensure to verify the location's zoning regulations before setting up.
Cost of Business Permit
$500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Arlington
Inspections: Food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Arlington Health Department. The inspection covers cleanliness, food safety, and equipment standards (e.g., refrigeration, cooking appliances).
Food Safety Certifications: Operators are required to complete a certified food protection course before applying for a permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Trucks must have a handwashing station with hot and cold running water.
A proper waste disposal system must be in place, including grease traps and sewage disposal.
Food must be prepared and stored in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Trucks must have appropriate equipment to maintain food temperatures, such as refrigeration and hot holding units.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Arlington
Food trucks are allowed to operate 7 days a week, between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., with extended hours allowed for special events or in designated districts.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Arlington
Food trucks with cooking equipment (such as grills or deep fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection with the Arlington Fire Department. Trucks must be equipped with fire extinguishers and a suppression system if using propane or other flammable materials. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Arlington
Food trucks must adhere to Arlington's zoning regulations, which may limit where they can operate.
Trucks cannot operate within 500 feet of a school during school hours.
Special permits may be required for operating during events or in high-traffic areas.
Vendors are advised to check the city's event schedule for additional temporary requirements.
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.