Richmond
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Richmond
Renew your permits annually and comply with local zoning, location, and event regulations.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Pass an annual Health Inspection conducted by the Richmond City Health District.
Obtain a Mobile Food Unit Permit from the City of Richmond Health Department.
Display your Mobile Food Unit Permit and health inspection certificates visibly on the truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection by the Richmond Fire Department 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 Richmond
Food trucks in Richmond must obtain a Mobile Food Unit Permit from the Richmond City Health Department.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Unit Permit (Richmond City Health Department).
Health Permit (Virginia Department of Health - VDH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Richmond Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (if required for operating in specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Unit Permit to the Richmond City Health Department.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Richmond City Health District to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Richmond Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Apply for a zoning permit from Richmond City if required for operating in certain districts or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and dishwashing.
Zoning regulations apply to food trucks, particularly in residential and school districts.
A special event permit may be required to operate at festivals, fairs, or other public events.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Richmond
Inspections: Food trucks in Richmond must pass an annual health inspection by the Richmond City Health District. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, cooking equipment, 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 Unit 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, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Richmond
Food trucks in Richmond are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Richmond
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane, etc.) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Richmond Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Richmond
Food trucks must comply with zoning laws, particularly near schools and in residential areas, where restrictions may apply.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at festivals, public gatherings, or large events, which may include extended operating hours or location flexibility.
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours without prior approval.
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.