Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Tyler
Renew the business license and mobile food vendor permit annually.
Ensure compliance with Fire Safety Regulations, including fire extinguishers and suppression systems for cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course recognized by the State of Texas.
Obtain a Business License from the City of Tyler’s Business License Division.
Adhere to zoning and location restrictions, especially near schools, parks, or residential areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection conducted by the Tyler Health Department.
Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Tyler Health Department.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Tyler
Required Permits:
Business License – Food truck operators in Tyler must obtain a business license through the City of Tyler’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Vendor Permit – This permit is issued by the Tyler Health Department to regulate food trucks operating in the city.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Business License – Submit an application and pay the required fees to the City of Tyler’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Vendor Permit – Submit an application with necessary documentation (such as proof of food safety certification, business insurance, and vehicle compliance with health standards) to the Tyler Health Department.
Health Inspection – Schedule and pass an inspection with the Tyler Health Department to ensure the food truck complies with local food safety regulations.
Fire Safety Inspection – Food trucks using cooking equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Tyler Fire Department. The truck must meet local fire safety codes, including having the required fire extinguishers and suppression systems.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must comply with specific zoning laws that restrict where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, parks, or residential areas. Food trucks may also need special permits for temporary locations or operating at special events.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Tyler
Inspections:
Food trucks in Tyler must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Tyler Health Department. Inspections check food handling, food storage, sanitation, and waste disposal systems to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Food Safety Certification:
Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the State of Texas. This ensures operators understand proper food handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Food trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration for food storage. Cooking equipment must comply with local health and safety standards.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Tyler
Food trucks in Tyler may operate from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. Extended hours may be allowed for special events or temporary locations with the appropriate permit.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Tyler
Fire Safety Inspections:
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks must pass a fire safety inspection by the Tyler Fire Department. Fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other fire safety equipment must meet local fire safety codes. A fire safety certificate may be required.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Tyler
Zoning and Location:
Food trucks in Tyler must follow local zoning regulations. These may include restrictions on where food trucks can operate, particularly in residential areas or near schools. Operators should verify approved zones for food truck operations.
Special Events:
Additional permits may be required for food trucks operating at special events or festivals in Tyler. These permits may have specific hours of operation, location requirements, and health and safety standards.
Temporary Operations:
Food trucks operating temporarily or in pop-up locations must obtain a temporary operating permit. This permit is often issued for specific events or for seasonal operations, and the truck must meet local health and safety standards.
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.