Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Denver
Comply with Zoning and Location Restrictions, particularly near schools, residential zones, and high-traffic areas.
Register for a Business License with the City of Denver to legally operate.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection to ensure compliance with food safety, equipment standards, and sanitation.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending License from the City of Denver’s Business Licensing Division.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a Certified Food Safety Course approved by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Denver
To operate a food truck in Denver, operators must secure several permits and licenses:
Mobile Food Vending License: Issued by the Denver Business Licensing Division, this license is necessary to operate a food truck in the city. To obtain the license, operators must submit an application, provide proof of food safety certification, and pass a health inspection. The license must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification course that is approved by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). This course ensures the operator understands proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must have a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. Proof of this arrangement must be provided with the permit application.
Business License: A business license from the City of Denver is required for food trucks. This can be obtained through the Denver Office of Economic Development.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Denver’s zoning laws, which may restrict operating in certain areas (e.g., near schools or residential areas). Special event permits are required for festivals or public gatherings.
Cost of Business Permit
$200 - $500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Denver
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Denver Department of Environmental Health. Inspections assess food safety, sanitation, equipment standards, food storage, cleanliness, and cooking appliances.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Course accredited by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). This is required before applying for the mobile food vendor license.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must be equipped with a handwashing station, adequate waste disposal systems, and refrigeration for perishable items. These facilities must comply with health standards and will be inspected by the Department of Environmental Health.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Denver
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. in most areas. However, extended hours may be granted for food trucks operating in entertainment districts or special events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Denver
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment such as propane tanks, grills, or fryers must undergo an inspection by the Denver Fire Department. Fire safety inspections ensure that trucks are equipped with fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other necessary fire safety measures. A fire safety certificate is required before operating a truck with cooking equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Denver
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 500 feet of school entrances during school hours and may have additional restrictions around public parks or residential areas.
Zoning Restrictions: Food trucks must follow Denver’s zoning laws. Certain areas, such as near schools, hospitals, and residential zones, may have restrictions on food truck operations. Parking in some areas may require special permits.
Special Event Permits: If operating at a public event or festival, additional permits are needed, and the event organizers generally manage these permits.
Street Parking Compliance: Food trucks must adhere to Denver’s street parking regulations, which may include time limits or restricted zones to avoid congestion or safety concerns in high-traffic areas.
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.