Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Chico
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Chico
To legally operate a food truck in Chico, the following permits are required:
Business License: Food truck operators must apply for a Business License from the City of Chico. This includes completing an application, submitting any required documentation, and paying the application fee.
Mobile Food Facility Permit: Operators must apply for a Mobile Food Facility Permit through the Butte County Department of Environmental Health. This permit requires a health inspection to verify that the truck complies with health and safety standards for food storage, preparation, and handling.
Health Inspection: The Butte County Environmental Health department is responsible for conducting health inspections of food trucks, ensuring that they meet California's food safety requirements. These include ensuring that the truck has proper food handling, refrigeration, and sanitation facilities.
Fire Department Inspection: If the food truck uses cooking equipment like grills, fryers, or propane tanks, a fire safety inspection is required to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. The Chico Fire Department conducts these inspections.
Zoning and Vending Regulations: Food trucks must comply with the City of Chico's zoning and vending regulations, which dictate where and when food trucks can operate. This may include specific permits or approvals for operating in certain locations, especially for mobile vending at city events or public spaces.
Cost of Business Permit
$748
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Chico
Health Inspections: Food trucks must pass an inspection by the Butte County Environmental Health department. Inspections ensure that the food truck meets health code standards, including food storage, preparation, and hygiene practices. This inspection must be passed annually.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing Station: The truck must be equipped with an operational handwashing station with soap, water, and paper towels.
Waste Disposal: Food trucks must have proper waste disposal systems for wastewater and trash, with no dumping allowed in public areas.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a food safety course and obtain certification.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Chico
Mobile food vendors in Chico, California must operate within the following hours:
Residential zoning district: 9 AM–9 PM daily
Non-residential zoning district: 6 AM–midnight daily
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Chico
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks that use cooking equipment must pass a fire safety inspection by the Chico Fire Department. The inspection ensures that the food truck complies with fire safety regulations, including having the proper fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and safe use of propane tanks or other heating equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Chico
Zoning Restrictions: Food trucks must comply with zoning restrictions in Chico, which may limit their operation in certain areas, such as residential zones or areas near schools.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks must obtain special event permits if they plan to operate at festivals, markets, or other city-sponsored events. These permits often have additional requirements and restrictions.
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.
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