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Your Guide to Food Trucks in Sterling Heights

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Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Sterling Heights

Sterling Heights
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Sterling Heights

Food trucks in Sterling Heights must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Sterling Heights. The application requires submitting a completed form, providing a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection from the Macomb County Health Department or the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage. Additionally, Sterling Heights enforces zoning and parking regulations, specifying where food trucks can park and operate, particularly in residential zones, near schools, or other restricted areas. All necessary permits and certificates must be clearly displayed on the truck during operation.

Cost of Business Permit

$244

How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed

Annually

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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Sterling Heights

Food trucks in Sterling Heights must pass an inspection by the Macomb County Health Department or the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). The inspection covers food storage, cleanliness, and safety of cooking equipment. Operators are required to complete a certified food safety course before applying for a permit. Trucks must be equipped with handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet local health and safety standards for refrigeration, food storage, and sanitation. Food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.

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Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Sterling Heights

Food trucks in Sterling Heights can generally operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., though extended hours may be allowed for special events or in specific districts.

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Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Sterling Heights

Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Sterling Heights Fire Department. The department ensures that trucks comply with local fire safety standards, including fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and proper equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required for trucks using cooking or heating equipment before they can operate.

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Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Sterling Heights

Food trucks in Sterling Heights must comply with local zoning and parking regulations, which restrict where food trucks can operate, particularly near schools, residential areas, or other restricted zones. Trucks must adhere to time-based restrictions, especially in high-traffic areas or during special events. Vendors must also apply for event-specific permits if participating in city festivals or other public events. It’s important to verify with the City of Sterling Heights regarding location-specific and event-based 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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