New Bedford
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in New Bedford
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in New Bedford
Food trucks in New Bedford, Massachusetts, must meet several requirements to legally operate:
Mobile Food Vendor License: Required from the Health Department after submitting an application, passing a health inspection, and showing proof of food safety certification.
Food Protection Certificate: All operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or another approved food safety course.
Business License: Issued by the New Bedford Licensing Board, this allows the food truck to operate within the city.
Fire Safety Inspection: If using cooking equipment such as propane or deep fryers, a fire safety inspection is required from the New Bedford Fire Department.
The city requires food trucks to follow specific health and safety guidelines outlined in the Code of Ordinances and submit an Establishment Plan Review application.
Cost of Business Permit
$600
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in New Bedford
Health Inspections: Food trucks must undergo an inspection conducted by the New Bedford Health Department. Inspections focus on food handling, storage, sanitation, and equipment standards, with an emphasis on food safety.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete an approved food safety course to obtain a Food Protection Certificate. This ensures they are aware of food safety practices and regulations.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must include a handwashing station, meet sanitation standards, and have proper waste disposal systems. Trucks must be equipped with safe food storage and refrigeration systems. Food trucks must also operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food prep and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in New Bedford
Food trucks with proper permits can operate at designated locations and times. Location A includes parks, city-owned ball fields, industrial, and business parks, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Location B covers the Working Waterfront District, from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location C is Historic Downtown, with hours from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Location D includes East and West Beach areas, with hours from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Food trucks can also operate on private property outside these areas with proper zoning and no required distance from food establishments, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in New Bedford
Food trucks using propane, grills, or deep fryers are required to have a fire inspection by the New Bedford Fire Department. This ensures that trucks meet fire safety standards and are equipped with fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other required safety equipment.
A fire safety certificate may be required for certain equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in New Bedford
Food trucks must comply with the zoning laws of New Bedford, including restrictions on location, such as not operating near schools during certain hours or in specific high-traffic areas.
Establishment Plan Review may be required for trucks making significant changes to operations or layout.
Special permits may be necessary if operating in public spaces or during special events.
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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