Des Moines
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Des Moines
Renew your permits annually and comply with local zoning, location, and event regulations.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Pass an annual Health Inspection conducted by the Des Moines Environmental Health Division or Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Des Moines.
Display your Mobile Food Vendor License and health inspection certificates visibly on your truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection by the Des Moines Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Des Moines
Food trucks in Des Moines must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Des Moines and comply with state health and fire safety regulations.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor License (City of Des Moines).
Health Permit (Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Des Moines Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Des Moines for specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for the Mobile Food Vendor License to the City of Des Moines.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA).
Pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Des Moines Environmental Health Division or Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Des Moines Fire Department if your truck uses cooking equipment.
Apply for a zoning permit from City of Des Moines if required for operating in specific districts or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Zoning regulations apply, particularly near schools, parks, or residential areas.
Special event permits are required for operating at city events, fairs, or public gatherings.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Des Moines
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Des Moines Environmental Health Division or Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor License.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems to meet local health standards.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Des Moines
Food trucks in Des Moines are generally allowed to operate from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Des Moines
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Des Moines Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Des Moines
Zoning regulations prohibit food trucks from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at city events, festivals, fairs, or public gatherings, which may allow for extended operating hours or location flexibility.
Trucks must comply with street parking regulations to avoid violations and ensure safety.
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.