Washington
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Washington
Comply with Zoning and Parking Regulations, especially near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas.
Register for a Business License with the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA).
Pass an Annual Health Inspection to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit from the D.C. Department of Health.
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 recognized by the D.C. Department of Health.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Washington
To legally operate a food truck in Washington, D.C., the following permits and requirements apply:
Mobile Food Vending Permit: Issued by the D.C. Department of Health, this permit is required to operate a food truck in the city. Applicants must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and meet the food safety standards set by the Department of Health. The permit must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Course approved by the D.C. Department of Health (DOH). This course ensures that food truck operators understand food safety, handling, and sanitation practices.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. Proof of the commissary kitchen's licensing and operational capacity must be submitted with the permit application.
Business License: A business license must be obtained from the D.C. Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA). This is required for all businesses operating within the District.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with D.C. zoning laws that regulate the areas where food trucks can operate. This includes restrictions on proximity to schools, parks, and other sensitive areas. Special location permits may be needed for operating in high-traffic or designated event areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$300 - $500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Washington
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the D.C. Department of Health. The inspection checks for compliance with food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, sanitation, and food safety protocols. Follow-up inspections may also be required.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Course that meets D.C. Department of Health standards. This course is necessary for obtaining the mobile food vending permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and adequate refrigeration. These features are inspected to ensure food safety standards are met.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Washington
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. in most locations, with extended hours allowed in designated entertainment districts or for special events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Washington
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the D.C. Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (FEMS). Food trucks must be equipped with fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other necessary safety equipment. A fire safety certificate is required before the truck can operate with cooking equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Washington
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours.
Zoning Regulations: Food trucks must follow D.C.’s zoning regulations, which include restrictions on locations near schools, parks, and certain residential areas. Special location permits may be needed for food trucks operating in high-traffic commercial or event zones.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks operating at festivals, fairs, or public events must obtain special event permits. Event organizers generally manage these permits and must coordinate with the relevant city agencies.
Street Parking Compliance: Food trucks must adhere to D.C.’s street parking regulations, which include restrictions on parking in certain zones or during specific hours. Vendors are advised to check for any parking bans or limitations that may affect their location.
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.