West Palm Beach
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in West Palm Beach
Display all required permits and certificates visibly on the truck during operation.
Operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a certified food safety course and provide proof of certification.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of West Palm Beach.
Comply with West Palm Beach’s zoning, parking, and time-based regulations for food trucks.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) or the Palm Beach County Health Department.
Submit a completed mobile food vending application, including required documentation such as a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and health inspection certificate.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in West Palm Beach
To legally operate a food truck in West Palm Beach, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit. The application process requires submitting a completed application form, proof of a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection by either the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) or the Palm Beach County Health Department. Food trucks must operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. West Palm Beach enforces zoning, parking, and time-based regulations, specifying where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, residential areas, or other restricted zones. All necessary permits and certificates must be displayed on the truck during operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in West Palm Beach
Food trucks in West Palm Beach must pass an inspection conducted by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) or the Palm Beach County Health Department. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, and safety of cooking equipment. Operators are required to complete a certified food safety course, such as the Food Safety Manager Certification, before applying for the permit. Trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and comply with health code standards for refrigeration and food safety equipment. Food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in West Palm Beach
Food trucks in West Palm Beach can generally operate from Sunday through Thursday: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., with extended hours allowed for special events or designated areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in West Palm Beach
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the West Palm Beach Fire Department. The fire department ensures that food trucks meet local fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other necessary equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating, especially for trucks using propane or other heating equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in West Palm Beach
Food trucks in West Palm Beach must comply with local zoning regulations, which may restrict where food trucks can operate, particularly near schools, residential areas, or public places. Food trucks are also subject to time-based restrictions during peak hours or near special events. Vendors wishing to participate in city events or festivals must apply for additional event-specific permits. It’s important for food truck operators to check with the City of West Palm Beach and the Palm Beach County Health Department for any special requirements or event-related permits.
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.