New Haven
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in New Haven
Display all required permits and certificates visibly on the truck during operation.
Use an approved commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a certified food safety course and provide proof of certification.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of New Haven.
Comply with New Haven's zoning and parking regulations regarding where food trucks can operate.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the New Haven Health Department or the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH).
Submit a completed mobile food vending application with required documentation, including a valid business license and proof of food safety certification.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in New Haven
To operate a food truck in New Haven, vendors must first obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License. The application process includes submitting the required documents, such as a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection from either the New Haven Health Department or the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). Additionally, food trucks must operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. The city enforces specific zoning and parking regulations, and food trucks must comply with these rules on where they can park and operate. Permits and certificates must be displayed on the truck while in operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$275
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in New Haven
Food trucks in New Haven must pass an inspection conducted by the New Haven Health Department or the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH). The inspection ensures that the truck meets food safety and sanitation standards, including proper food storage, cleanliness, and cooking equipment safety. Operators must complete a food safety certification course before applying for the permit. Trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet the health code requirements for refrigeration and food safety. Food preparation and storage must occur in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in New Haven
Food trucks in New Haven are generally allowed to operate from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m., with extended hours for special events or designated areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in New Haven
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire inspection by the New Haven Fire Department. The department ensures that the truck is equipped with the necessary fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and complies with local fire safety standards. A fire safety certificate may be required for trucks that use cooking or heating equipment before they can operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in New Haven
Food trucks in New Haven must comply with local zoning regulations, which may restrict where food trucks can operate, particularly near schools, residential areas, or other restricted zones. Vendors are required to follow local parking and time-based regulations, especially in high-traffic areas or event zones. Special event permits are also required for food trucks participating in city festivals, fairs, or other public gatherings. Operators should confirm with the city regarding additional event-specific permitting requirements or location restrictions.
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.