Escondido
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Escondido
Display permits and licenses visibly on the truck.
Renew your Mobile Food Vendor Permit annually.
Pass annual health inspections by the DEH to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Escondido.
Avoid operating in restricted zones like schools, churches, and parks.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a certified Food Safety Manager Course approved by the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health (DEH).
.png){kind=small}
City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Escondido
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To legally operate a food truck in Escondido, you must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit issued by the City of Escondido.
Steps to Obtain: Submit an application with the city, provide proof of insurance, complete a food safety manager certification, and pass a health inspection from the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health.
Unique Rules: Food trucks in Escondido must also adhere to special operating location restrictions. Operating near schools, churches, or public parks is generally prohibited unless with special permission. Additionally, only certain areas are designated as legal for food truck parking, and these areas may require a separate location permit.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
.png){kind=small}
Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Escondido
Inspections: Food trucks must pass annual health inspections conducted by the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health (DEH). These inspections ensure food storage, preparation, and cleanliness meet safety standards.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Manager Course approved by the DEH before applying for a permit. This certification ensures knowledge of food handling, safety, and sanitation.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have proper handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet sanitation requirements. A licensed commissary kitchen is also required for food storage and preparation.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Escondido
Food trucks can operate between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily. Extended hours may be allowed in designated areas or during special events with appropriate permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Escondido
Trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, or propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection with the Escondido Fire Department.
Vendors must ensure they have proper fire extinguishers and suppression systems, and that cooking equipment meets fire safety standards.
A fire safety permit may be required depending on the equipment used, and must be obtained before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Escondido
Location Restrictions: Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of public schools during school hours unless they have special permits. There are also restrictions regarding operating in residential areas and certain public spaces.
Special Event Permits: Vendors who wish to operate at festivals or events in Escondido must obtain additional permits through the event organizers.
Parking Regulations: Food trucks must park in legal, designated areas. Parking regulations may vary depending on the district, and food trucks should avoid parking in restricted zones.
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.