Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Aurora
• Display all required permits prominently while operating.
• Obtain a sales tax license from the State of Colorado.
• Ensure your food truck meets fire safety regulations, including inspections and necessary equipment.
• Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Aurora.
• Ensure your truck complies with zoning regulations regarding operating locations.
• Complete a food safety certification course before applying for your permit.
• Pass a health inspection conducted by the Tri-County Health Department.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Aurora
In Aurora, Colorado, food trucks are required to obtain several permits to operate:
Mobile Food Vendor License: This license authorizes the operation of a food truck within Aurora's city limits and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: A health inspection by the Tri-County Health Department is required. The inspection ensures the food truck complies with safety standards for food storage, handling, and sanitation.
Sales Tax License: Required by the State of Colorado for collecting sales tax on food sold from the truck.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Submit an application for a Mobile Food Vendor License to the city.
Schedule and pass an inspection from the Tri-County Health Department.
Provide proof of the use of a licensed commissary kitchen.
Obtain a Colorado State Sales Tax License.
Pass a fire safety inspection if using cooking equipment like grills or fryers.
Unique Conditions: Food trucks must comply with Aurora’s zoning and time-based restrictions. Some areas may have specific operating hours or limits on where food trucks can operate, such as avoiding residential or school zones during certain hours.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Aurora
Inspections: Food trucks are subject to an annual inspection by the Tri-County Health Department, which covers cleanliness, food storage, and equipment standards.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a certified food safety course before applying for a permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
A handwashing station with both hot and cold running water is required.
Waste disposal systems must be in place, including grease traps and proper sewage disposal.
Food trucks must store and prepare food in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Trucks must have equipment to maintain appropriate food temperatures (hot and cold storage).
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Aurora
In Aurora, Colorado, food trucks can operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., adhering to zoning regulations, including restrictions near residential areas and restaurants. Operating on city property requires additional permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Aurora
Food trucks with cooking equipment such as grills or fryers must pass a fire safety inspection conducted by the Aurora Fire Rescue. Fire extinguishers and suppression systems may be required if using propane or other flammable materials. Fire safety certificates must be obtained before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Aurora
Food trucks must adhere to Aurora's zoning laws, which restrict where they can operate (e.g., avoiding areas near schools during school hours).
Trucks operating in event or high-traffic zones may need additional permits.
Aurora restricts food trucks from operating in certain residential areas during specified times to avoid disturbances.
The city’s event coordinators may provide special temporary permits for food trucks at festivals or community events.
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.