Madison
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Madison
Comply with local zoning regulations and location restrictions for operating.
Obtain a fire inspection for any cooking equipment, such as grills or fryers.
Pass an initial health inspection conducted by the Madison Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Establishment License from the City of Madison Health Department.
Renew your Mobile Food Establishment License annually.
Ensure the food truck operates from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a Food Safety Manager Certification (required for operators or key staff).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Madison
To legally operate in Madison, food trucks must acquire the following permits:
Mobile Food Establishment License: Issued by the Madison Health Department. This permit is required for all food trucks operating within city limits. The application process involves submitting an application form, proof of Food Safety Manager Certification, and payment of fees. The truck must pass a health inspection to verify compliance with food safety standards.
Food Safety Certification: At least one person on the food truck must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification (e.g., ServSafe), which ensures compliance with local health regulations.
Health Inspection: The Madison Health Department conducts inspections to ensure the food truck complies with local food safety, sanitation, and food handling regulations.
Commissary Kitchen: All food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen, where food is prepared and stored. The kitchen must meet local health standards and undergo regular inspections.
Business License: A general business license may be required, depending on the structure of your operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Madison
Food trucks in Madison must comply with the following health-related requirements:
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual inspection by the Madison Health Department. The inspection checks food safety, cleanliness, food storage, and equipment compliance (e.g., refrigeration and cooking appliances).
Food Safety Certification: At least one person on the food truck must hold a Food Safety Manager Certification from an accredited program (such as ServSafe). This ensures that food safety practices are followed.
Truck-Specific Requirements: The truck must have an onboard handwashing station, appropriate waste disposal systems, and maintain food storage and refrigeration that complies with local regulations. All food must be prepared in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Madison
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM., but operating hours may vary depending on zoning or event-specific permits. Some areas may have restrictions on operating near schools or residential zones.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Madison
Fire inspections are required for any food truck with cooking equipment, including grills, fryers, or propane tanks. The Madison Fire Department inspects food trucks for fire safety standards.
The truck must have fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and meet all fire safety codes. A fire safety certificate may be required before operation.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Madison
Zoning and Location Restrictions: Food trucks must comply with local zoning regulations that govern where they can operate. Trucks may be prohibited from operating in certain zones, such as near schools, residential neighborhoods, or public parks during specific hours. Zoning regulations help ensure that food trucks do not disrupt residential areas or pose safety hazards in busy commercial areas.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks wishing to operate at special events, festivals, or fairs in Madison may need additional temporary event permits. Event organizers typically coordinate these permits, and specific location or time-based restrictions may apply.
Temporary Locations: If a food truck operates temporarily (e.g., during special events or food festivals), a temporary food establishment permit may be required. These permits are issued for short-term events.
Food Truck Corridors: Madison has designated areas where food trucks are encouraged to park and operate, especially during peak seasons or large events. These areas often require permits and ensure trucks are in locations with high foot traffic for optimal business.
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.