Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Austin
Adhere to Zoning and Location Restrictions, especially around schools, parks, and high-traffic areas.
Register for a Business License with the City of Austin.
Pass a Health Inspection to ensure the food truck meets sanitation and safety standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Austin’s Environmental Health Services Division.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal, and provide proof of this arrangement.
Complete a Certified Food Safety Course recognized by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Austin
To operate a food truck in Austin, several permits and licenses are required:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: Issued by the City of Austin Environmental Health Services, this permit is required to legally operate a food truck. Applicants must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and demonstrate compliance with sanitation and safety regulations.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Texas Food Handler’s Certification or a Food Protection Manager Certification before applying for the mobile food vendor permit. This ensures that operators understand food handling and safety procedures.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks are required to use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. Proof of this relationship must be submitted when applying for the permit.
Business License: Operators must also obtain a business license from the City of Austin, which is necessary for operating a food truck in the city.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Austin's zoning and parking laws, which may restrict the locations where they can operate, especially near schools, public parks, or certain commercial areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$100 - $200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Austin
Inspections: All food trucks in Austin must pass an initial health inspection conducted by the City of Austin Environmental Health Services Division. Inspections focus on food storage, cleanliness, cooking appliances, and sanitation practices. A follow-up inspection may also be required after the first year of operation.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified Food Handler’s Course or a Food Protection Manager Certification as required by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, adequate waste disposal systems, and proper refrigeration to ensure food safety. These are inspected regularly to ensure compliance with health codes.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Austin
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. However, extended hours may be allowed in certain entertainment districts or with special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Austin
Fire Safety: Food trucks with propane, grills, deep fryers, or other cooking equipment must schedule an inspection with the Austin Fire Department. The truck must meet fire safety standards, including having the appropriate fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and safety equipment. A fire inspection certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Austin
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks cannot operate within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours, as well as other restricted zones.
Zoning and Location Regulations: Food trucks must comply with Austin’s zoning laws, which include specific parking restrictions and rules about where trucks can operate, especially near public parks, schools, and hospitals.
Special Event Permits: Additional permits may be required if operating at special events, festivals, or private functions. Event organizers will typically handle these additional requirements.
Street and Parking Compliance: Trucks must adhere to Austin's street parking restrictions, which may vary by district or area of the city.
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.