Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Downey
Renew the business license and mobile food vendor permit annually.
Ensure compliance with Fire Safety Regulations, including fire extinguishers and suppression systems for cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course recognized by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Obtain a Business License from the City of Downey.
Adhere to zoning and location restrictions, particularly near schools, parks, or residential areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection conducted by the Downey Health Department or Los Angeles County Health Department.
Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Downey Health Department.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Downey
Required Permits:
Business License – Food truck operators in Downey must obtain a business license from the City of Downey’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Vendor Permit – This permit is issued by the Downey Health Department, and it is required to operate a mobile food unit in the city.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Business License – Submit an application and pay the required fees to the City of Downey’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Vendor Permit – Apply for a mobile food vendor permit from the Downey Health Department or Los Angeles County Health Department. Documentation required includes food safety certification, proof of insurance, and compliance with health and safety regulations.
Health Inspection – Schedule and pass an inspection with the Downey Health Department or the Los Angeles County Health Department. This inspection covers food handling, storage, sanitation, and waste disposal.
Fire Safety Inspection – Food trucks must pass a fire safety inspection conducted by the Downey Fire Department, ensuring compliance with fire extinguisher and suppression system requirements.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must comply with zoning and location regulations. There may be restrictions on operating near schools, parks, or residential areas. Special permits may be required for temporary or event-based locations.
Cost of Business Permit
$160
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Downey
Inspections:
Food trucks in Downey must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Downey Health Department or Los Angeles County Health Department. Inspections cover food storage, food handling, sanitation, and waste disposal.
Food Safety Certification:
Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course recognized by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to ensure compliance with safe food handling and sanitation practices.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Food trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, refrigeration for food storage, and must meet local health codes for cooking equipment and sanitation.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Downey
Food trucks in Downey are typically allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Special permits are required for extended hours or temporary event locations.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Downey
Fire Safety Inspections:
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks must pass a fire safety inspection conducted by the Downey Fire Department. Fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other safety measures must meet local fire codes. A fire safety certificate may be required before operations can begin.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Downey
Zoning and Location:
Food trucks in Downey must adhere to local zoning laws. These laws may restrict food truck operations near schools, parks, or residential areas. Operators should confirm approved locations with the City of Downey.
Special Events:
Food trucks must obtain additional permits to operate at special events, fairs, or festivals. These permits may include specific rules on location, hours of operation, and health and safety compliance.
Temporary Operations:
For temporary or pop-up operations, food trucks must obtain temporary permits. These permits specify location, operating hours, and health and fire safety requirements for temporary operations at approved locations.
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.