Seattle
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Seattle
Comply with Zoning and Parking Restrictions, particularly near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas.
Register for a Business License with the City of Seattle.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit from the City of Seattle’s Department of Public Health.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a Food Safety Certification approved by the Washington State Department of Health.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Seattle
In Seattle, food truck entrepreneurs must obtain various permits to legally operate:
Mobile Food Vending Permit: Issued by Seattle Public Health, this permit is required to operate a food truck. Operators must submit an application, pass an initial health inspection, and meet sanitation requirements. The permit must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification that is recognized by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Proof of the commissary’s license and location must be submitted with the application.
Business License: A business license is required from the City of Seattle to legally operate a food business within the city. This is obtained through the Seattle Office of the City Treasurer.
Zoning and Location Permits: Seattle has specific zoning laws and location restrictions for food trucks, especially near schools, parks, and in high-traffic commercial areas. Certain areas require special location permits or parking permits.
Cost of Business Permit
$500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Seattle
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Seattle Public Health Department. Inspections assess food safety, cleanliness, refrigeration, food storage, and sanitation practices.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification recognized by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) before applying for the mobile food vendor permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, adequate waste disposal systems, and proper refrigeration. These facilities must comply with Seattle’s health and safety standards and are inspected during the health inspection process.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Seattle
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. in most areas, though extended hours may be permitted in designated entertainment or event zones. Some areas may require special permits for operating during specific hours or in high-traffic areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Seattle
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment such as propane tanks, grills, or deep fryers must pass a fire safety inspection by the Seattle Fire Department. Trucks must be equipped with fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other fire safety equipment. A fire inspection certificate is required before the truck can operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Seattle
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of school entrances during school hours.
Zoning Regulations: Food trucks must adhere to Seattle’s zoning laws and comply with parking restrictions, particularly in residential, school, or high-traffic areas.
Special Event Permits: If operating at special events, festivals, or public functions, food trucks may need additional permits, which are typically coordinated by the event organizers.
Street Parking Compliance: Food trucks must follow Seattle’s parking regulations and cannot park in spaces restricted for other purposes, including in front of certain public buildings or in areas with limited access.
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.