Wichita
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Wichita
• Display all permits visibly on the truck during operations.
• Ensure your food truck meets Wichita’s fire safety regulations, including required inspections.
• Complete a food safety certification course before submitting your application.
• Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Wichita.
• Follow zoning regulations to ensure you are operating in authorized locations.
• Register for a Kansas Sales Tax Permit to collect sales tax.
• Pass a health inspection conducted by the Wichita-Sedgwick County Health Department.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Wichita
In Wichita, Kansas, food trucks need several permits to operate:
Mobile Food Vendor License: This license is required to legally operate a food truck in Wichita. It is issued by the City of Wichita and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: A health inspection by the Wichita-Sedgwick County Health Department is required to ensure the truck complies with food safety standards.
Kansas Sales Tax Permit: This permit is required for collecting sales tax on food items. It is issued by the Kansas Department of Revenue.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleanup.
Steps for Obtaining Permits:
Submit a Mobile Food Vendor application to the City of Wichita.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Wichita-Sedgwick County Health Department.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen.
Obtain a Kansas Sales Tax Permit from the state.
Schedule a fire safety inspection if your truck uses cooking equipment.
Unique Conditions: Food trucks must adhere to local zoning regulations, including restrictions on operating near schools, parks, and residential areas. Trucks are also prohibited from operating in certain restricted zones without permission.
Cost of Business Permit
$400
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Wichita
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual inspection conducted by the Wichita-Sedgwick County Health Department. The inspection covers food safety, cleanliness, and equipment standards.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators are required to complete a food safety course and obtain certification before applying for the Mobile Food Vendor License.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Trucks must have a handwashing station with hot and cold running water.
Proper waste disposal systems, including grease disposal, must be in place.
Food must be prepared and stored in a licensed commissary kitchen.
Food trucks must have temperature-controlled storage for both hot and cold food.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Wichita
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but some locations may have specific restrictions or extended hours during events
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Wichita
Food trucks with cooking equipment, such as grills or fryers, must schedule a fire safety inspection with the Wichita Fire Department. Fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and safe fuel handling practices are required. A fire safety certificate may be needed before operating.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Wichita
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of a school during school hours.
Vendors must comply with Wichita’s zoning restrictions, including parking regulations and restrictions on operating in residential neighborhoods.
Temporary permits may be needed for special events, festivals, or high-traffic areas.
Certain areas, like the downtown district, may have specific regulations regarding food truck parking and operating hours.
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.