Chesapeake
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Chesapeake
Renew your permits annually and comply with any additional zoning or location regulations.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Pass an annual Health Inspection conducted by the Chesapeake Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Chesapeake.
Display your Mobile Food Vendor Permit and health inspection certificates visibly on the truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Chesapeake
Food trucks in Chesapeake must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Chesapeake.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Chesapeake).
Health Permit (Virginia Department of Health - VDH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Chesapeake Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Chesapeake, if required for specific locations or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Chesapeake.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Chesapeake Health Department.
Ensure the food truck complies with fire safety standards and pass an inspection with the Chesapeake Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
If operating in specific zones or public areas, obtain a zoning permit from the City of Chesapeake.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Food trucks must adhere to zoning regulations regarding location, especially in residential areas or near schools.
Special event permits are required for operating at events or in high-traffic zones.
Cost of Business Permit
$140
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Chesapeake
Inspections: Food trucks in Chesapeake must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Chesapeake Health Department. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems that meet local health standards.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Compliance with sanitation and cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Chesapeake
Food trucks in Chesapeake are typically allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Chesapeake
Food trucks that use cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, or propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Chesapeake Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before operating a food truck.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Chesapeake
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours without special approval.
Food trucks must comply with zoning laws that may restrict operations near residential areas or specific public spaces.
Special event permits are required for food trucks to operate at festivals, fairs, or large gatherings.
Operators should review street parking regulations to ensure they do not block traffic or cause safety hazards.
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.