How to Start a Food Truck in Mississippi: The Ultimate 2024 Guide
One should identify strategic locations and events in Mississippi that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business. In Mississippi, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck. Developing a menu that resonates with the culinary preferences of Mississippi's residents can significantly contribute to the success of a food truck.
Finding a Commissary Kitchen in Mississippi for your Food Truck to Operate From
Example
Food Trucks in Mississippi
Crooked Letter Kitchen
BBQ
Gotta Lovett Wings and Things
Chicken wings
Eddie Wright BBQ
Barbecue
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Mississippi
In Mississippi, the Cottage Food Operation law allows individuals to prepare certain low-risk foods in their home kitchens for sale directly to consumers. This law permits the production of items like baked goods, jams, and candies without needing a commercial license or inspection. However, there are specific limitations on sales venues and revenue thresholds, and labeling requirements must be adhered to for products sold under this law.
Find a Food Truck for Sale in Mississippi
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Mississippi [2025]
In Mississippi, all food trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of over 3,000 lbs must be registered with the Department of Revenue (DOR). Trailers weighing less than 3,000 lbs can be registered as non-commercial trailers with a one-time fee of $50.
For trailers over 3,000 lbs, the registration fee is $100 annually. To register, you must provide the trailer's title, proof of insurance, a completed application, and a bill of sale. Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration but must meet safety requirements for operation.
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Mississippi
Food trailers in Mississippi weighing more than 10,000 lbs must undergo a Level I VIN inspection before registration. The VIN inspection costs $20 and can be performed by law enforcement or at authorized inspection stations.
Trailers weighing less than 10,000 lbs do not require a VIN inspection unless being titled from another state. No emissions testing is required for food trailers.
Mississippi Food Trailer Height, Width, and Length Limits
Mississippi limits trailer width to 8.5 feet, height to 13.5 feet, and length to 65 feet for the combined vehicle-trailer setup. If your food trailer exceeds these limits, an oversize permit is required.
The permit costs $25 for a single-trip permit and must be applied for at least 48 hours before travel. Additionally, food trailers exceeding a GVW of 10,000 lbs may require an overweight permit, with costs varying based on weight.
Mississippi Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
Mississippi requires food trailers with a GVW of over 3,000 lbs to be equipped with a separate braking system. Electric brakes are the most common type and must meet state standards.
For trailers under 3,000 lbs, no separate brakes are required, though the trailer must still have functional brakes for safety.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Mississippi
Mississippi requires food trailers to have at least two red tail lights visible from 500 feet, amber reflectors on the sides, and working turn signals. Trailers must also be equipped with at least one safety chain connecting the trailer's hitch to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the full GVW of the trailer and must meet state standards. Additional lighting may be required for trailers exceeding 10,000 lbs.