Lakewood
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Lakewood
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Lakewood
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Lakewood, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit. The application includes submitting the required forms, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Jefferson County Public Health Department. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks are required to pass an inspection by the Jefferson County Public Health Department to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Inspections cover food handling, food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and cooking equipment. A health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must obtain a business license from the City of Lakewood. This ensures that the food truck is registered and legally authorized to operate in the city. The license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Lakewood has specific zoning regulations regarding food trucks. Food trucks must operate in designated food truck zones or special event locations. They are generally prohibited from operating in certain areas, such as near schools, residential areas, or in places without proper zoning approval.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Lakewood
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual inspection by the Jefferson County Public Health Department. The inspection ensures compliance with health standards, including food handling, storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course before applying for the food truck permit. Certification is required every 3 years and must be renewed.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored at safe temperatures. Trucks are required to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Lakewood
Food trucks can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., though these hours may vary based on location-specific regulations or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Lakewood
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the West Metro Fire Rescue Authority. This inspection ensures the truck meets fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate may be required to begin operation.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Lakewood
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours, unless an exemption is granted.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. Event organizers must work with the city to secure proper permits.
Food trucks must comply with Lakewood’s zoning regulations, including areas designated as food truck zones, specific parking regulations, and operational time limitations.
The city encourages food truck operators to follow sustainability practices, particularly related to waste management and recycling in compliance with the Lakewood Sustainability Program.
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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