Worcester
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Worcester
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Worcester
To legally operate a food truck in Worcester, food truck operators must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Worcester and comply with state health and fire safety regulations.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Worcester).
Health Permit (Massachusetts Department of Public Health - DPH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Worcester Fire Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (City of Worcester for specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Worcester.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Worcester Division of Public Health to ensure food safety and sanitation compliance.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Worcester Fire Department if using cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane.
Apply for a zoning permit from City of Worcester if required for operating in specific areas 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 dishwashing.
Zoning regulations apply, particularly near schools, parks, or in high-traffic locations.
Special event permits are required for operating at city events, fairs, or public gatherings.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Worcester
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Worcester Division of Public Health. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
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 Worcester
Food trucks in Worcester are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Worcester
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Worcester 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 Worcester
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.
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