Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Mobile
Display your permits prominently on your truck while operating.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete the required annual health inspection by the Mobile County Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending License from the City of Mobile.
Comply with parking and location restrictions (e.g., no vending in certain zones).
Register your business with the City of Mobile and obtain a business license.
Ensure the truck meets state health and safety standards, including a valid food safety certification.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Mobile
To operate a food truck in Mobile, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Mobile. The process involves submitting required forms, obtaining a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), and passing inspections by the Mobile County Health Department and the Mobile Fire Department. Food trucks must comply with sanitation standards, including handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Operators must follow zoning regulations, maintaining at least 150 feet from restaurant seating, and adhere to specific operational hours based on location. All permits must be displayed visibly on the truck.
Cost of Business Permit
$375
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Mobile
Inspections: All food trucks must undergo an annual inspection by the Mobile County Health Department. Inspections check for food storage, cleanliness, and the functionality of cooking and refrigeration equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified food safety course and pass an exam before applying for a health permit. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and equipment that meets state health standards. Trucks must also use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Mobile
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with some exceptions for special events that may allow extended hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Mobile
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) are required to schedule a fire safety inspection with the Mobile Fire-Rescue Department. The truck must have working fire extinguishers, grease traps, and meet fire safety standards. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Mobile
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of schools during school hours.
Operators must adhere to specific parking regulations and avoid designated no-vending zones.
Trucks operating at special events or festivals may be subject to additional rules or permits.
Vending in certain historical or restricted zones may be prohibited
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.