Tallahassee
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Tallahassee
Display all permits and licenses clearly while operating.
Ensure the truck has a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and meets refrigeration requirements.
Pass an annual health inspection to ensure food safety and sanitation standards are met.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Tallahassee.
Avoid operating in restricted zones and adhere to zoning regulations (e.g., near schools, parks, or busy areas).
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a Food Protection Management Course accredited by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Tallahassee
To operate a food truck in Tallahassee, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Tallahassee's Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Affairs Department. The process requires the submission of an application, payment of fees, and passing an inspection by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) and the Florida Department of Health (DOH). Food truck operators must also complete a Food Protection Management Course accredited by DBPR. The truck must adhere to health and sanitation regulations, including the presence of a handwashing station, waste disposal, and refrigeration, and food must be prepared at a licensed commissary kitchen. Additionally, trucks must comply with zoning laws and be restricted from certain areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$347
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Tallahassee
Food trucks in Tallahassee must pass an annual health inspection by the Florida Department of Health (DOH) to ensure compliance with food safety standards. Inspections cover food storage, equipment cleanliness, and the overall hygiene of the truck. Operators must complete a Food Protection Management Course before applying for the permit, which is accredited by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). The truck must be equipped with a handwashing station, a waste disposal system, and refrigeration. The food must be stored and prepared at a licensed commissary kitchen. Violations can result in fines or suspension of the food truck's operating permit.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Tallahassee
Food trucks in Tallahassee can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. However, there may be extended hours for special events or areas where food trucks are allowed to operate longer.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Tallahassee
Food trucks with cooking equipment, including grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks, must pass a fire inspection by the Tallahassee Fire Department. The truck must have fire extinguishers and adhere to fire safety regulations. If the truck uses flammable cooking equipment, a fire suppression system may be required. A fire safety certificate may be necessary for trucks to operate in Tallahassee.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Tallahassee
Zoning restrictions in Tallahassee prohibit food trucks from operating within certain areas, such as near schools or public parks, during specific hours.
Vendors must adhere to city parking rules, which may involve using designated parking spots or vending areas.
For special events (like festivals or public gatherings), food trucks may require additional permits or approval from the Parks, Recreation, and Neighborhood Affairs Department.
Food trucks are encouraged to review the City’s Vendor Guidelines for specific rules related to location and event participation.
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.