Garden Grove
Table of Contents
State

Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Garden Grove
Renew permits and inspections annually to maintain legal operation.
Ensure the food truck complies with zoning and location regulations, operating only in approved areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection by the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division.
Obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit from the City of Garden Grove.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of Garden Grove and obtain a business license.
Complete a Food Safety Certification from a state-approved course.

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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Garden Grove
Mobile Food Facility Permit: Food trucks in Garden Grove must obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit from the City of Garden Grove. This process includes submitting an application, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection conducted by the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks in Garden Grove are required to undergo an inspection by the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division. This inspection ensures that food trucks meet state and local health standards, including proper food handling, sanitation, and equipment. The health permit must be renewed annually.
Business License: All food truck operators must register their business with the City of Garden Grove and obtain a business license. This license is required for conducting business in the city and must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Garden Grove has specific zoning regulations that dictate where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks must operate in designated food truck zones or event areas and must comply with local parking and location restrictions, particularly near schools or residential areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Garden Grove
Inspections: Food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Orange County Health Care Agency, Environmental Health Division. Inspections assess sanitation, food storage, refrigeration, and equipment standards.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a food safety certification program approved by the state of California. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored at safe temperatures. They must also use an approved commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.


Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Garden Grove
Food trucks can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., though these hours can vary depending on the location and special event permits.

Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Garden Grove
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection conducted by the Garden Grove Fire Department. The truck must meet fire safety standards, including fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate is required before starting operations.


Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Garden Grove
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours, unless an exemption is granted.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events or festivals.
Food trucks must comply with Garden Grove’s zoning regulations for designated vending areas and must follow restrictions related to residential zones and high-traffic areas.
The Orange County Health Care Agency enforces the California Food Code and ensures that food trucks meet state food safety standards.
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.