San Antonio
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in San Antonio
Comply with Time-Based and Zoning Restrictions, including no operation near schools or in certain restricted areas.
Register for a Business License and pay the applicable fees to legally operate.
Complete a Food Handler's Training Course approved by SAMHD before operating.
Obtain a Mobile Food Establishment Permit from the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (SAMHD).
Display Permits on the truck at all times during operation.
Use a Commissary Kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal, with proof required for permit approval.
Pass a Health Inspection conducted by SAMHD to ensure food safety standards are met.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in San Antonio
Food trucks in San Antonio require several permits and licenses to legally operate:
Mobile Food Establishment Permit: Issued by the San Antonio Metropolitan Health District (SAMHD), this permit is necessary to operate a food truck. To obtain it, operators must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and provide documentation of food safety certification.
Business License: A business license from the City of San Antonio must also be obtained. The license requires registration and payment of fees.
Food Handler's Training Course: Operators must complete a food handler’s course certified by SAMHD, and this certificate must be submitted with the application.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks are required to operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen where food is prepared, stored, and waste is disposed of. Proof of the commissary is necessary to obtain the permit.
Zoning and Parking Permits: Certain areas of the city have restrictions on where food trucks can park and operate, particularly around schools, hospitals, and certain high-traffic zones.
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 San Antonio
Inspections: All food trucks are required to pass regular health inspections conducted by SAMHD. These inspections check for food storage, cleanliness, equipment condition (refrigeration, cooking appliances), and food handling practices. Inspections typically occur annually, but can be more frequent depending on the circumstances.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Handler’s Training Course approved by SAMHD. This course is required to ensure that the operator understands food safety practices such as proper food storage and handling.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and adequate refrigeration to meet sanitation standards. These systems must be in working order and comply with local health codes.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in San Antonio
Food trucks may operate between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.. Special exceptions may apply in certain zones like entertainment districts, but operations must comply with local zoning laws.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in San Antonio
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, deep fryers, propane tanks) must schedule an inspection with the San Antonio Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with appropriate fire suppression systems, extinguishers, and other fire safety equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating the truck.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in San Antonio
No operation within 300 feet of school entrances during school hours without special permission.
Restricted Zones: Food trucks cannot operate in certain restricted zones, such as near hospitals or in high-traffic pedestrian areas without proper permits.
Event Permits: Special permits may be required for trucks operating at events or festivals. Event organizers typically manage these additional requirements.
Parking and Zoning: Trucks must comply with San Antonio's parking regulations, especially concerning parking in areas that might be restricted or zoned for other types of businesses.
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.