Anaheim
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Anaheim
• Display all required permits visibly on your truck during operations.
• Ensure your food truck complies with Anaheim’s fire safety regulations, including inspections and required equipment.
• Complete a food safety certification course before submitting your application.
• Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Anaheim.
• Follow local zoning regulations to ensure you are operating in authorized locations.
• Register for a California Sales Tax Permit to collect sales tax.
• Pass a health inspection conducted by the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Anaheim
In Anaheim, California, food trucks must acquire the following permits to legally operate:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: This permit is issued by the City of Anaheim and allows food trucks to operate within city limits.
Health Permit: A health inspection by the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) is required to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
California Sales Tax Permit: Issued by the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), this permit allows food trucks to collect sales tax on food sold.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must store and prepare food in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Submit an application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Anaheim.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the HCA, covering food handling, sanitation, and equipment standards.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Obtain a California Sales Tax Permit from the CDTFA.
Schedule a fire safety inspection with the Anaheim Fire Department if your truck uses cooking equipment.
Unique Conditions: Anaheim has specific zoning laws that restrict food truck operations in certain areas, particularly near schools, parks, and residential zones. Trucks must also comply with specific restrictions in designated zones such as entertainment districts or business corridors.
Cost of Business Permit
$325
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Anaheim
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA). The inspection ensures compliance with food safety practices such as food storage, sanitation, and equipment maintenance.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a food safety certification course recognized by the state and local health authorities before applying for the permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
A handwashing station with hot and cold running water must be available in the truck.
Waste disposal systems, including grease disposal and sewage handling, must be in place.
Food must be stored and prepared in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Proper temperature controls are required for both hot and cold food storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Anaheim
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with extended hours allowed in special districts or during events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Anaheim
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane must pass a fire safety inspection with the Anaheim Fire Department. Trucks must be equipped with fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and proper ventilation. A fire safety certificate is required before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Anaheim
Food trucks in Anaheim must adhere to zoning restrictions, which limit where they can operate, especially near schools, parks, and residential areas.
Trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of a school during school hours.
Special events may require additional permits or temporary operating permissions.
Food trucks in high-traffic areas or entertainment districts must comply with specific operational and parking rules.
The city encourages vendors to verify any special requirements for events like fairs or festivals.
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.