Huntsville
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Huntsville
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 Madison County Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Huntsville.
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 Huntsville Fire & Rescue if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Huntsville
Food trucks in Huntsville must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Huntsville.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Huntsville).
Health Permit (Madison County Health Department or ADPH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Huntsville Fire & Rescue).
Zoning/Location Permit (if required for specific areas or special events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Huntsville.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Madison County Health Department or the ADPH.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Huntsville Fire & Rescue if your food truck uses cooking equipment.
Apply for a zoning permit from the City of Huntsville if required for operating in specific locations 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 to food trucks, particularly near schools, residential areas, and in high-traffic districts.
A special event permit may be required to operate at festivals, fairs, or other city-sponsored events.
Cost of Business Permit
$458
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Huntsville
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Madison County Health Department or Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) 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 comply with local health regulations.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Huntsville
Food trucks in Huntsville are typically allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Huntsville
Food trucks using cooking equipment (grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by Huntsville Fire & Rescue.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Huntsville
Food trucks must comply with zoning laws, particularly near schools, residential areas, and in high-traffic areas.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at city events, festivals, or fairs, which may allow for extended hours or flexibility in location.
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by 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.