Visalia
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Visalia
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Visalia
Mobile Food Facility Permit: To operate a food truck in Visalia, you need to obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit from the City of Visalia.
Steps to Obtain: Submit an application through the City of Visalia, provide proof of liability insurance, and undergo a background check. The application requires proof of a Food Safety Manager Certification, and the food truck must pass a health inspection by the Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA).
Unique Rules: Food trucks must comply with specific zoning laws, including designated areas where they can park and serve food. They are prohibited from operating near schools, public parks, or hospitals unless they obtain a special permit. Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Cost of Business Permit
$275
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Visalia
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Tulare County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA). Inspections cover food storage, sanitation, and equipment maintenance, including refrigeration and cooking appliances.
Food Safety Manager Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Manager Certification approved by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH). This course ensures operators understand food safety practices, such as proper handling, storage, and preparation.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must include handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and ensure their equipment and food storage meet health standards. Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Visalia
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Extended hours may apply with special permits for events or specific locations.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Visalia
Fire Inspections: Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection with the Visalia Fire Department.
Food trucks must have the necessary fire extinguishers and fire suppression systems that meet local fire safety standards.
A fire safety certificate is required before the food truck can begin operations, especially if the truck uses open flames or flammable materials.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Visalia
Location and Zoning Restrictions: Food trucks in Visalia cannot operate within 500 feet of schools during school hours unless they have special permission. There are also restrictions on operating near hospitals, parks, or residential areas without additional permits.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks wishing to operate at special events such as festivals or public markets must obtain additional event-specific permits. These permits are often provided by the event organizers, and there may be specific guidelines or fees associated with vending at such events.
Vending Areas: The City of Visalia has designated areas for food truck vending, particularly in commercial zones. Operators must confirm these designated locations with the City of Visalia before starting operations.
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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