Baton Rouge
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Baton Rouge
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 East Baton Rouge Parish Health Unit.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Display your Mobile Food Vendor Permit and health inspection certificates visibly on the truck.
Ensure your food truck complies with Fire Safety Requirements, including an inspection by the Baton Rouge Fire Department if using cooking equipment.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Baton Rouge
Food trucks in Baton Rouge must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and follow local regulations set by the East Baton Rouge Parish Health Unit.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (Louisiana Department of Health).
Health Permit (East Baton Rouge Parish Health Unit).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Baton Rouge Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Baton Rouge, for specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the East Baton Rouge Parish Health Unit to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Baton Rouge Fire Department if using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane.
Apply for a zoning permit from City of Baton Rouge if required for operating in certain high-traffic or event areas.
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 dishwashing.
Zoning regulations apply, especially for food trucks near schools, parks, or residential areas.
Special event permits are required for operating at festivals, fairs, or public gatherings.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Baton Rouge
Inspections: Food trucks in Baton Rouge must undergo an annual health inspection conducted by the East Baton Rouge Parish Health Unit. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems that 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 Baton Rouge
Food trucks in Baton Rouge are generally allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Baton Rouge
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Baton Rouge Fire Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks with cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Baton Rouge
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 participating in public events, festivals, or city-sponsored 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.