top of page

Your Guide to Food Trucks in Spokane

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

be82c1a1aa074e33f08d6d4d811c5048.png
a80fb6ebac36fc48af2680c09767c86d.png

Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Spokane

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 Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD).

Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Spokane.

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 by the Spokane Fire Department if using cooking equipment.

Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).

Spokane
image (3).png

City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Spokane

Food trucks in Spokane must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Spokane.

Types of Permits:

Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Spokane).
Health Permit (Spokane Regional Health District - SRHD).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Spokane Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (for specific operating areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:

Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Spokane.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH).
Pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Spokane Fire Department if using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane.
Apply for a zoning permit from the City of Spokane if operating in specific areas 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 cleaning.
Zoning regulations apply, particularly near schools, residential areas, and high-traffic locations.
Special event permits are required for operating at festivals, fairs, or public gatherings.

Cost of Business Permit

$160

How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed

Annually

image 1 (2).png

Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Spokane

Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD). Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, sanitation practices, and cooking equipment.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) 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, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.

800c1c55de67e0000282469f759a7f05.png
10b28b585aa5985506f739068b2a70ed.png

Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Spokane

Food trucks in Spokane are typically allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.

ddca77a54f568b67dd9c46fc12424b48.png

Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Spokane

Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, or propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Spokane 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.

843148c04cd80f741c48bc3ec5486cbd.png
7be9d776666e8196aea30959509d6a79.png

Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Spokane

Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations, particularly in residential areas, schools, and high-traffic districts.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in festivals, fairs, or public events, which may allow for extended operating hours or specific location flexibility.
Trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours without approval from the city.

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.

Fast Track to Start a Food Truck Business in Washington [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]

bottom of page