Bridgeport
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Bridgeport
.png){kind=small}
City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Bridgeport
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Bridgeport, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Bridgeport. This process includes submitting an application, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Bridgeport Health Department or the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: All food trucks in Bridgeport must pass an inspection by the Bridgeport Health Department or Connecticut DPH. The inspection checks for food safety compliance, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and cooking equipment. The 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 Bridgeport. This ensures the food truck is legally authorized to operate within the city. The license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Bridgeport has specific zoning regulations that determine where food trucks can operate. Food trucks must park in designated food truck zones or obtain special event permits for other locations. Restrictions apply to operating near schools, residential areas, or certain public spaces without proper authorization.
Cost of Business Permit
$300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
.png){kind=small}
Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Bridgeport
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Bridgeport Health Department or Connecticut DPH. Inspections ensure compliance with food safety standards, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a food safety certification program approved by the state of Connecticut. Certification is valid for 3 years and must be renewed.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and meet local sanitation and food safety standards. They must also operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Bridgeport
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., though hours may vary depending on location-specific rules or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Bridgeport
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Bridgeport Fire Department. This ensures the truck complies with fire safety standards, including proper installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate is required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Bridgeport
Special Event Permits: Food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings must obtain a special event permit. These events may have additional rules and requirements for food vendors.
Food trucks must comply with Bridgeport’s zoning codes, which regulate where they can park, the hours they can operate, and any restrictions on operating near schools or in residential areas.
Sustainability: Bridgeport encourages food truck operators to follow sustainable practices, including waste management and recycling efforts to reduce environmental impact.
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.
Fast Track to Start a Food Truck Business in Connecticut [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]