Alexandria
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Alexandria
Renew permits and inspections annually to remain compliant.
Ensure the food truck complies with zoning and location regulations, operating only in approved areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection conducted by the Alexandria Health Department or Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Alexandria.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of Alexandria and obtain a business license.
Complete a Food Safety Certification from a state-approved course.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Alexandria
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Alexandria, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit. The application process includes submitting an application form, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Alexandria Health Department or Virginia Department of Health. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks must undergo an inspection by the Alexandria Health Department or VDH. The inspection checks for food safety standards such as food storage, sanitation, refrigeration, and cooking equipment. A health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must obtain a business license from the City of Alexandria to operate legally within the city limits. This license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Alexandria has specific zoning regulations that govern where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks must operate in designated food truck zones or special event areas, and cannot operate in residential zones or within certain distances of schools without special permission.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Alexandria
Inspections: All food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection conducted by the Alexandria Health Department or VDH. Inspections cover food handling, storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and the cleanliness of equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course before applying for the food truck permit. Certification is required every 3 years and must be renewed.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must maintain proper sanitation systems, handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet local food safety standards. Additionally, food trucks are required to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Alexandria
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., though specific hours may vary depending on the location or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Alexandria
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (such as grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Alexandria Fire Department. The inspection ensures that the truck meets fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Alexandria
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of schools during school hours, unless granted an exemption by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. These events may have additional requirements and regulations for vendors.
Food trucks must comply with Alexandria’s zoning regulations, ensuring that they operate in designated food truck zones and follow all parking, operational, and time-based restrictions.
The City of Alexandria encourages sustainability by promoting waste management, recycling, and reducing the environmental impact of food trucks.
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.