[Free 2024 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in Texas
Consider the weather and seasonal factors in Texas when planning the operation schedule and menu for the food truck. One should identify strategic locations and events in Texas that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business. In Texas, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck.
Example
Food Trucks in Texas
Silo Park Food Truck
Cafe
Tatazo Food Truck
Mexican food
Yummy Pizza Food Truck
Pizza
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Texas
A Cottage Food Operation in Texas operates outside standard food service establishment rules, exempting it from compliance with state regulations. Health departments lack inspection authority over these operations, but they can intervene in emergencies affecting public health, issuing recall orders or emergency directives. Although exempt, health departments must document complaints lodged against Cottage Food Operations to track and address potential issues.
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Texas [2025]
In Texas, trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 4,000 lbs or more must be registered. The registration fee for food trailers depends on the weight: trailers between 4,000 lbs and 6,000 lbs are charged a $60 annual registration fee, while trailers over 6,000 lbs cost $100 annually.
Required documents for registration include a completed Form 130-U (Application for Texas Title and/or Registration), proof of insurance, a copy of the trailer title, and proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license). Farm-use trailers are exempt from registration, but must comply with safety regulations.
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Texas
Food trailers in Texas with a declared GVW over 10,000 lbs are required to undergo a Level I VIN inspection prior to registration. This inspection, which costs $20, can be completed at authorized inspection stations or by law enforcement.
Trailers under 10,000 lbs do not require inspections unless the title is being transferred from another state. No emissions testing is required for food trailers.
Texas Food Trailer Height, Width, and Length Limits
Texas limits the width of food trailers to 8.5 feet, the height to 14 feet, and the total length (vehicle and trailer combined) to 65 feet. If a trailer exceeds any of these dimensions, an oversize permit is required.
These permits cost $25 for a single-trip permit and must be applied for at least 48 hours in advance. Special conditions apply to trailers that exceed 120 inches in width or 14 feet in height.
Texas Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
In Texas, trailers with a GVW over 3,000 lbs must have a separate braking system, which is typically electric.
Hydraulic systems are also allowed. Food trailers under 3,000 lbs are exempt from this requirement and do not need a braking system.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Texas
Texas law mandates that food trailers must have two red tail lights visible from at least 500 feet, amber reflectors on each side, and functioning turn signals. The trailer must also have at least one safety chain, rated to handle the full GVW of the trailer, connecting the hitch to the towing vehicle. The hitch must be securely attached to the towing vehicle and in good working order.