Fort Collins
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Fort Collins
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Fort Collins
Outdoor Vendor License: To operate a food truck in Fort Collins, vendors must apply for an Outdoor Vendor License. This license allows food trucks to operate in designated areas within the city. The application includes submitting forms, proof of food safety certification, and paying a licensing fee. This license must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks in Fort Collins are required to pass an inspection by the Larimer County Department of Health. The inspection includes checks for proper food storage, sanitation, refrigeration, and cooking equipment. The health permit must be renewed annually.
Sales Tax License: Food truck operators in Fort Collins must obtain a Sales Tax License from the City of Fort Collins to collect sales tax on their sales. This license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Fort Collins has specific zoning laws that regulate where food trucks can park and operate. Trucks are typically restricted from operating in residential areas, certain public spaces, and near schools during specific hours. Food trucks must comply with these local zoning regulations.
Cost of Business Permit
$100
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Fort Collins
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Larimer County Department of Health. Inspections ensure food safety compliance, including food handling, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment safety.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course. This certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and meet all local sanitation and food safety standards. They must also use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Fort Collins
Food trucks can operate from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., with specific restrictions for special events or high-traffic areas. Extended hours may be allowed for special permits or events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Fort Collins
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Fort Collins Fire Department. This inspection ensures that the food truck meets all fire safety regulations, including fire extinguishers, grease traps, and fire suppression systems. A fire safety certificate may be required to begin operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Fort Collins
Food trucks must comply with Fort Collins zoning regulations, which may restrict where they can operate, particularly in residential zones and near schools.
Operators must ensure they obtain the appropriate Sales Tax License to collect sales tax on food truck sales.
Food trucks participating in special events must apply for additional event permits. Event-specific regulations may apply for parking, operation times, and location within the event space.
Vendors must review Fort Collins Outdoor Vendor Guidelines to ensure they follow all local regulations, including fees, zoning, and operational hours.
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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