Cape Coral
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Cape Coral
Renew your permits annually and comply with local zoning, location, and special event regulations.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Pass an annual Health Inspection conducted by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) or Lee County Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Cape Coral.
Display your Mobile Food Vendor Permit and health inspection certificates visibly on the truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection by the Cape Coral Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Cape Coral
Food trucks in Cape Coral must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Cape Coral.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Cape Coral).
Health Permit (Florida Department of Health or Lee County Health Department).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Cape Coral Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (if required for operating in specific locations or for special events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Cape Coral.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Florida Department of Health or Lee County Health Department to ensure food safety compliance.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection with the Cape Coral Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Apply for a zoning permit from the City of Cape Coral if required for operating in specific districts or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations and street parking rules, particularly in high-traffic areas or near residential districts.
A special event permit may be required for operating at festivals, fairs, or other public gatherings.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Cape Coral
Inspections: Food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Florida Department of Health or Lee County Health Department to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems compliant with local health regulations.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Cape Coral
Food trucks in Cape Coral are typically allowed to operate during normal business hours (typically 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.), but special event permits may allow for extended hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Cape Coral
Food trucks using cooking equipment (grills, fryers, propane, etc.) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Cape Coral Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before operating a food truck.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Cape Coral
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by the city.
Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations, which may include parking restrictions in certain areas or near schools.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at city-sponsored events, fairs, or festivals, which may allow for extended hours or location flexibility.
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.