top of page

How to Start a Food Truck in Kentucky: 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.

be82c1a1aa074e33f08d6d4d811c5048.png

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

Get a full food truck business plan template and example

Cities

Lexington

Change the text and make it your own. Click here to begin editing.

Lexington

Louisville

Change the text and make it your own. Click here to begin editing.

Louisville

Writing a Business Plan for a Food Truck in Kentucky

Get a full food truck business plan template and example

be82c1a1aa074e33f08d6d4d811c5048.png

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

Food Truck Events in Kentucky

truck.png
fluent_food-24-regular.png

Koi Express Food Truck

Sushi

truck.png
fluent_food-24-regular.png

Rolling Oven

Pizza

truck.png
fluent_food-24-regular.png

Bamba Eggroll Co. Food Truck & Catering

Filipino food

truck.png
fluent_food-24-regular.png

Sweet N Savory food truck

Gluten-free sweet

Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in Kentucky

The Kentucky Cottage Food Operation refers to a set of regulations governing the production and sale of certain homemade food products within the state. These regulations allow individuals to operate small-scale food businesses from their homes, producing low-risk food items such as baked goods, jams, and candies for direct sale to consumers. The guidelines outline specific requirements, such as labeling and sanitation standards, to ensure the safety of the products and protect public health.

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

  • In Kentucky, all food trailers must be registered with the Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing (DMVL). The registration fee for noncommercial trailers with a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 10,000 lbs or less is $40 per year. 

  • Trailers over 10,000 lbs are required to pay $75 for permanent registration. Required documents for registration include proof of ownership (bill of sale or title), proof of insurance, and a completed registration form. Agricultural-use trailers are exempt from registration but must still comply with safety standards.

Find a Food Truck for Sale in Kentucky

Food Truck Brit

Change the text and make it your own. Click here to begin editing.

View More
843148c04cd80f741c48bc3ec5486cbd.png

Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Kentucky

Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in Kentucky

  • In Kentucky, all food trailers must be registered with the Division of Motor Vehicle Licensing (DMVL). The registration fee for noncommercial trailers with a GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating) of 10,000 lbs or less is $40 per year. 

  • Trailers over 10,000 lbs are required to pay $75 for permanent registration. Required documents for registration include proof of ownership (bill of sale or title), proof of insurance, and a completed registration form. Agricultural-use trailers are exempt from registration but must still comply with safety standards.

  • In Kentucky, the towing vehicle’s insurance typically extends to the food trailer, but food truck operators should also carry collision and comprehensive insurance for the trailer, especially for equipment coverage. 

  • The minimum required liability insurance in Kentucky is $25,000 per person and $50,000 per accident.

843148c04cd80f741c48bc3ec5486cbd.png
Kentucky Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
  • Kentucky requires food trailers with a GVWR over 3,000 lbs to have a separate braking system. Electric brakes are the most common, but hydraulic systems are also acceptable. 

  • Trailers under 3,000 lbs are exempt from this requirement. All brakes must be operational and regularly maintained to pass safety inspections.

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

Kentucky requires food trailers to have two red tail lights visible from 500 feet, with amber reflectors on both sides. Turn signals must be functional. Trailers must also have at least one safety chain that connects the trailer hitch to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the full GVWR of the trailer.

bottom of page