Ontario
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Ontario
City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Ontario
To operate a food truck in Ontario, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Ontario. The application process includes submitting the required forms, completing a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), and passing an annual health inspection by the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health. Food trucks must meet sanitation and food safety standards, including having a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Vendors must also comply with local zoning regulations in Ontario that govern where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas. Permits must be displayed on the truck during operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Ontario
Food trucks in Ontario are required to pass an annual health inspection conducted by the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health. Inspections cover food storage, refrigeration, cleanliness, and cooking appliances. Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification before applying for the permit, which is accredited by CDPH. The truck must be equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Non-compliance can result in fines or suspension of the operating permit.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Ontario
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., although operating hours may vary based on zoning restrictions or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Ontario
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the Ontario Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers and comply with fire safety standards. A fire suppression system may be required for trucks using certain cooking equipment. A fire safety certificate may be necessary before starting operations to ensure compliance with local fire safety regulations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Ontario
Zoning regulations in Ontario restrict where food trucks can operate. Vendors must comply with city zoning codes that govern food truck placement, particularly near schools, parks, and busy intersections.
Street parking regulations apply to food trucks, and vendors must follow specific parking rules for vending in designated zones.
Special events require additional permits. Food trucks wishing to participate in public events, festivals, or markets must apply for temporary event permits that come with specific location and operational restrictions.
Food trucks are encouraged to check the Ontario Municipal Code and Mobile Food Vendor Guidelines for more detailed information about local zoning rules, food safety regulations, and event-specific guidelines.
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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