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Your Guide to Food Trucks in Newport News

No guesswork—just a click-by-click roadmap to build your food truck business plan and get the funding to launch!

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Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Newport News

Display all permits and licenses clearly while operating.

Ensure that the truck is equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration.

Pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Peninsula Health District (a division of the Virginia Department of Health) to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.

Obtain a Mobile Food Unit Permit from the City of Newport News.

Follow zoning regulations specific to Newport News and avoid operating in restricted areas, such as near schools, parks, or busy intersections.

Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.

Complete a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).

Newport News
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Newport News

To operate a food truck in Newport News, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Unit Permit from the City of Newport News. The process involves submitting an application, completing a Food Safety Manager Certification accredited by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH), and passing an annual health inspection by the Peninsula Health District. Food trucks must comply with health and sanitation requirements, including having a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Food trucks must also comply with zoning regulations in Newport News that govern where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas. Permits must be visibly displayed on the truck.

Cost of Business Permit

$150

How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed

Annually

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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Newport News

Food trucks in Newport News are required to pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Peninsula Health District (a division of the Virginia Department of Health). The inspection checks food storage, refrigeration, cleanliness, and equipment. Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by VDH before applying for the permit. The truck must be equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Failure to comply with health regulations can lead to fines or suspension of the operating permit.

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Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Newport News

Food trucks in Newport News are allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., although specific hours may vary based on zoning restrictions or special event permits.

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Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Newport News

Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the Newport News Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers and comply with local fire safety standards. A fire suppression system may be required for certain cooking equipment. A fire safety certificate may be necessary before starting operations to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations.

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Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Newport News

Zoning regulations in Newport News govern where food trucks can operate. Vendors must comply with city zoning codes, which may prohibit food trucks from operating near schools, parks, or busy intersections unless special permissions are granted.
Food trucks must follow street parking regulations and may need to park in designated vending areas or pay for metered parking.
Special events in Newport News may require additional permits. Food trucks wishing to participate in festivals, markets, or public events must apply for temporary event permits.
Vendors are encouraged to consult the Newport News Mobile Food Unit Guidelines and Virginia Department of Health's Mobile Unit Guidelines for more detailed operational requirements and local regulations.

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.

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