[Free 2024 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in Virginia
Networking with other food truck owners in Virginia can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. One should identify strategic locations and events in Virginia that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business. In Virginia, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck.
Example
Food Trucks in Virginia
The Flying Pig Food Truck
Barbecue
Curbside Creations Food Truck
American street food
Fire Escape
Burgers and food
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Virginia
The FDA oversees the safety of food ingredients and materials that come into contact with food, including packaging and cookware. Both direct food additives and those in contact with food must meet safety standards to ensure no harm under their intended use conditions. With a database of nearly 4,000 substances called Substances Added to Food, the FDA assists the industry in meeting safety responsibilities, listing authorized and discontinued ingredients. Manufacturers using new technologies in food production receive pre-market consultation to ensure compliance with safety standards set by the FDA.
How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Virginia [2025]
In Virginia, all food trailers must be registered unless they are specifically exempt, such as farm-use trailers. Registration fees vary depending on the weight of the trailer: trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of up to 3,000 lbs are $30 for a one-year registration, while those over 3,000 lbs cost $50.
To register a food trailer, you will need the title, proof of insurance, a completed title application (Form VSA 14), and payment for the applicable fee. If the trailer was purchased from a private seller, you must also provide a bill of sale. Trailers used for commercial purposes (like food trucks) are not exempt from registration.
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Virginia
Virginia requires food trailers with a GVW of over 3,000 lbs to undergo a safety inspection before they can be registered. The inspection must include a VIN verification and, if applicable, a brake inspection. This inspection costs $20 and can be performed at authorized DMV locations or by law enforcement.
Trailers under 3,000 lbs do not require a VIN inspection unless the title is being transferred from another state. No emissions testing is required for food trailers in Virginia.
Virginia Food Trailer Height, Width, and Length Limits
In Virginia, food trailers must adhere to state size limits: the maximum allowable width is 8.5 feet, the maximum height is 13.5 feet, and the total combined length of the vehicle and trailer cannot exceed 65 feet. If your food trailer exceeds these dimensions, you will need an oversize permit, which costs $25 for single trips.
Permits must be applied for at least 72 hours in advance, and the route must be approved by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Oversize permits are valid for specific travel windows.
Virginia Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
Virginia law mandates that food trailers with a GVW of over 3,000 lbs must have a separate braking system. These can be either electric or hydraulic braking systems.
Trailers with a GVW of 3,000 lbs or less are not required to have brakes. However, all brakes on food trailers must be in working condition and pass inspection before registration.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Virginia
Virginia requires food trailers to have functioning lighting and reflectors. The trailer must have two red tail lights visible from 500 feet, amber reflectors on the sides, and at least one working brake light and turn signals. Trailers must also have a safety chain to prevent detachment in the event the hitch fails. The chain must be rated to handle the full weight of the trailer and should be crossed beneath the hitch to ensure proper security.