Detroit
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Detroit
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Detroit
In Detroit, food truck entrepreneurs must acquire several permits and licenses to operate legally:
Mobile Food Vending Permit: Issued by the Detroit Health Department (DHD), this permit is required for food trucks operating in the city. To obtain the permit, operators must submit an application, provide proof of food safety certification, and pass a health inspection. The permit is renewable annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification program that meets the standards set by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. Documentation of the commissary kitchen's licensing must be submitted along with the permit application.
Business License: A business license is required to operate a food truck in Detroit. This can be obtained from the Detroit Business License Division.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Detroit’s zoning regulations, which control where food trucks can park and operate, especially near schools, parks, and in busy commercial areas. Some locations may require special location-based or event-specific permits.
Cost of Business Permit
$150 - $300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Detroit
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Detroit Health Department. The inspection covers food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment standards, including cooking appliances and refrigeration systems.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification that is recognized by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). This certification must be completed before applying for a food truck permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and adequate refrigeration for perishable food items. These features will be inspected during the health inspection to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Detroit
Food trucks are allowed to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m.. Extended operating hours may apply in designated entertainment districts or for special events, provided additional permits are obtained.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Detroit
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment, such as propane tanks, grills, or deep fryers, must schedule an inspection with the Detroit Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other necessary fire safety equipment. A fire safety certificate is required for trucks with cooking equipment before they can begin operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Detroit
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless special permission is granted.
Zoning and Parking Regulations: Food trucks must follow Detroit’s zoning regulations. This includes parking restrictions in certain areas and limitations on operations in residential or high-traffic zones. Some districts may have specific operating hours or permit requirements.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks operating at public events, festivals, or markets may need additional permits. Event organizers will typically handle the permitting process for food trucks, and operators should confirm the requirements with the event planners.
Location-Specific Rules: Trucks operating in entertainment districts or high-demand areas may face extended hours, special fees, or other location-specific regulations. Vendors are encouraged to check with the local authorities to ensure they meet all necessary requirements.
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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