Modesto
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Modesto
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Modesto
Food trucks in Modesto must obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit from Stanislaus County Environmental Health (SCEH) and adhere to city requirements.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Facility Permit (Stanislaus County Environmental Health).
Health Permit (California Department of Public Health - CDPH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Modesto Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Modesto, if required for operating in specific locations or during special events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Facility Permit to Stanislaus County Environmental Health (SCEH).
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Stanislaus County Environmental Health (SCEH).
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Modesto Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Apply for a zoning permit from City of Modesto if required for operating in high-traffic areas or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and dishwashing.
Zoning regulations apply, especially for food trucks operating near schools, parks, or in high-traffic areas.
A special event permit is required for food trucks operating at city events, fairs, or festivals.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Modesto
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by Stanislaus County Environmental Health (SCEH). Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) before applying for a Mobile Food Facility Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems to meet local health standards.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Modesto
Food trucks in Modesto are typically allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Modesto
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Modesto Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks with cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Modesto
Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations, particularly near schools, residential areas, and in high-traffic districts.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in city events, festivals, fairs, or public gatherings, which may allow for extended operating hours or location flexibility.
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by the city.
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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