Springfield
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Springfield
City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Springfield
Required Permits:
Business License – Food truck operators in Springfield must obtain a business license from the City of Springfield’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Establishment Permit – This permit is issued by the Springfield Health Department and regulates food truck operations within the city.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Business License – Submit a completed application and pay the required fees to the City of Springfield’s Business License Division.
Mobile Food Establishment Permit – Submit an application through the Springfield Health Department, which includes providing proof of food safety certification, business insurance, and compliance with health and safety codes.
Health Inspection – Schedule and pass an inspection conducted by the Springfield Health Department or IDPH to ensure that food trucks comply with health regulations, including food handling, sanitation, and waste disposal.
Fire Safety Inspection – Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks must pass a fire safety inspection by the Springfield Fire Department. Trucks must have proper fire extinguishers and suppression systems that comply with local safety codes.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must comply with zoning laws that restrict operations in certain areas, such as near schools, parks, or residential areas. They may need special permits for operating at events or temporary locations.
Cost of Business Permit
$700
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Renews after 2 years
Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Springfield
Inspections:
Food trucks must undergo an annual health inspection by the Springfield Health Department or IDPH. Inspections will include checks for food safety compliance, such as proper food handling, sanitation practices, food storage, and waste disposal.
Food Safety Certification:
Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course recognized by the State of Illinois. This course ensures operators understand safe food handling, preparation, and sanitation practices.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Food trucks must have handwashing stations, proper waste disposal systems, refrigeration for food storage, and meet health department standards for cooking equipment. The truck must be properly maintained, and cooking equipment must be compliant with safety standards.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Springfield
Food trucks in Springfield may operate from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Special permits may be required for operating beyond these hours or during events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Springfield
Fire Safety Inspections:
Food trucks with cooking equipment must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Springfield Fire Department. These inspections ensure that fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and cooking equipment meet local fire safety regulations. A fire safety certificate may be required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Springfield
Zoning and Location:
Food trucks must comply with Springfield’s zoning laws, which restrict where food trucks can park and operate, particularly in residential areas or near schools. It is essential to confirm the zoning rules before setting up operations.
Special Events:
Additional permits are required for food trucks operating at special events, fairs, or festivals. These permits may have specific guidelines for hours of operation, location, and health and safety compliance.
Temporary Operations:
For food trucks operating temporarily or at pop-up events, additional permits may be necessary. These may include event-specific rules regarding location, operational hours, and food safety standards.
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.
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