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How to Start a Food Truck in Illinois: The Ultimate 2025 Guide

Consider the weather and seasonal factors in Illinois when planning the operation schedule and menu for the food truck. Developing a menu that resonates with the culinary preferences of Illinois's residents can significantly contribute to the success of a food truck. One should identify strategic locations and events in Illinois that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business.

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Fast Track to Start a Food Truck Business in Illinois [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]

Fast Track to Start a Food Truck Business in Illinois [2025 Bundle with Guides, Calculators and Full Business Plan]

Get a full food truck business plan template and example. Your dream food truck business is within reach—follow our step-by-step system to hit six figures and beyond!

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Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Illinois

Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Illinois

  • In Illinois, food trailers must be registered unless they are used exclusively for agricultural purposes. Trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 3,000 lbs or less are subject to a one-time registration fee of $60. 

  • For trailers over 3,000 lbs, the fee increases to $100. Required documents for registration include proof of ownership (e.g., a bill of sale or title), proof of insurance, and a completed registration application. 

  • Registration must be renewed annually for trailers over 3,000 lbs. Agricultural trailers are exempt from registration but must adhere to specific safety standards.

  • In Illinois, liability insurance for the towing vehicle typically extends to the food trailer. However, food truck owners should carry additional collision coverage to safeguard their trailer’s equipment. 

  • The minimum liability coverage for trailers is $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident

Writing a Business Plan for a Food Truck in Illinois

Step-by-step, click-by-click—follow our proven roadmap to create a winning business plan and secure funding for your food truck dream!

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Finding a Commissary Kitchen in Illinois for your Food Truck to Operate From

Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Illinois

A Cottage Food Operation in Illinois refers to producing permissible food or drink items in a kitchen situated in one's primary home or a designated farm kitchen. These goods are intended for direct sale by the owner, a family member, or an employee, excluding items prohibited by law. Essentially, it represents a home-based food business that complies with specific regulations regarding where and how the food is prepared and sold.

Example of Successful Food Trucks in Illinois

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The Cheesies Truck

Grilled cheese sandwiches

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The Fat Shallot Food Truck

Sandwich

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Tacos Diablos Truck

Mexican food

Food Truck Events in Illinois

Tcc Yum Food Truck Park Sunset Movie And Market
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Willis

Free Monday Night Comedy; Karaoke Bash At Bar 8 With Yanceys Food Truck!
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Houston

Throwback Thursdays Rnb Singles Mixer
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Taylorsville

How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in Illinois [2025]

  • In Illinois, food trailers must be registered unless they are used exclusively for agricultural purposes. Trailers with a Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) of 3,000 lbs or less are subject to a one-time registration fee of $60. 

  • For trailers over 3,000 lbs, the fee increases to $100. Required documents for registration include proof of ownership (e.g., a bill of sale or title), proof of insurance, and a completed registration application. 

  • Registration must be renewed annually for trailers over 3,000 lbs. Agricultural trailers are exempt from registration but must adhere to specific safety standards.

Find a Food Truck for Sale in Illinois

Illinois Food Trailer Height, Width, and Length Limits
Illinois Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
  • In Illinois, trailers with a GVW over 3,000 lbs are required to have a separate braking system, such as electric or hydraulic brakes. 

  • Trailers under 3,000 lbs are not required to have independent brakes, though they must still meet other safety standards such as working lights and reflectors. Electric braking systems are most common, but hydraulic brakes are also acceptable.

Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in Illinois

Illinois requires all food trailers to have two red tail lights visible from at least 500 feet and amber reflectors on both sides. The trailer must also have functional turn signals and at least one safety chain that connects the hitch to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the full GVW of the trailer.

City Specific Guides for Starting a Food Truck in Illinois

Springfield

Springfield

Naperville

Naperville

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