Bellevue
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Bellevue
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 King County Public Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Bellevue.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of Bellevue 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 Bellevue
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Bellevue, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Bellevue. This process includes submitting an application, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the King County Public Health Department. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks must pass an inspection by the King County Public Health Department. The inspection ensures compliance with food safety regulations, including food handling, storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and cooking equipment. The 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 Bellevue to legally operate within the city limits. This license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Bellevue has specific zoning laws that dictate where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks must operate in designated food truck zones or obtain special event permits for other areas. There are restrictions on operating near schools, residential zones, and other public spaces.
Cost of Business Permit
$800
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Bellevue
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the King County Public Health Department. Inspections ensure food safety compliance, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course. Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored and served at safe temperatures. Additionally, food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Bellevue
Food trucks can operate from 4:00 a.m. to 9:50 p.m., though hours may vary depending on location-specific rules or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Bellevue
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Bellevue Fire Department. The inspection ensures that the truck meets fire safety standards, including proper installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate may be required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Bellevue
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours unless authorized by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. These events may require additional documentation and vendor requirements.
Food trucks must comply with Bellevue’s zoning codes, ensuring they only operate in designated zones and follow all parking and time-based restrictions.
Bellevue encourages food truck operators to participate in sustainability initiatives by adhering to local waste management, recycling, and environmental 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.