Fort Worth
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Fort Worth
Follow Zoning Laws and Parking Restrictions related to operating in designated areas, including near schools and public spaces.
Register for a Business License with the City of Fort Worth.
Pass a Health Inspection conducted by the Fort Worth Environmental Services Department to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Fort Worth Environmental Services Department.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal, and provide proof of its usage.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course, such as the Texas Food Handler’s Program.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Fort Worth
To legally operate a food truck in Fort Worth, entrepreneurs must obtain several permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: Issued by the Fort Worth Environmental Services Department, this permit is required to operate a food truck. To obtain the permit, operators must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and provide proof of a valid food safety certification.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified food safety course, such as the Texas Food Handler’s Program, before applying for the mobile food vendor permit. This certification ensures that operators understand proper food handling and safety.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks are required to use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Proof of this arrangement must be submitted to the Environmental Services Department.
Business License: Operators must also obtain a business license from the City of Fort Worth to legally operate their food truck.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Fort Worth’s zoning laws, including parking restrictions and regulations on operating near schools, residential zones, or high-traffic areas. Specific location permits may be required depending on the area of operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$200 - $300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Fort Worth
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Fort Worth Environmental Services Department. Inspections assess food storage, cleanliness, cooking equipment, and sanitation practices.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete the Texas Food Handler’s Course or another certified food safety program. This course teaches proper food handling, hygiene, and safety protocols.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and adequate refrigeration for perishable items. These facilities are necessary to meet the city’s sanitation and health standards.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Fort Worth
Food trucks are allowed to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. Generally, extended hours may be allowed in certain entertainment districts or areas with special events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Fort Worth
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must schedule an inspection with the Fort Worth Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with appropriate fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and safety equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Fort Worth
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours.
Zoning and Parking Restrictions: Food trucks must comply with Fort Worth’s parking regulations, particularly regarding restricted zones near schools, hospitals, and residential areas.
Special Event Permits: If operating at a festival or event, food trucks may need additional permits from event organizers, and special rules may apply for those venues.
Parking Compliance: Operators must ensure they park in legal, permitted spaces to avoid fines for violations.
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.