How to Start a Food Truck in Illinois: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Consider the weather and seasonal factors in Alabama when planning the operation schedule and menu for the food truck. In Alabama, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck. Networking with other food truck owners in Alabama can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration.
Food Truck Events in Illinois
The Cheesies Truck
Grilled cheese sandwiches
Aztec Dave's Food Truck
Authentic Mexican street food
The Fat Shallot Food Truck
Sandwich
Tacos Diablos Truck
Mexican food
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.
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
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
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.