Las Vegas
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Las Vegas
Comply with Zoning and Parking Restrictions, especially near schools, parks, and other restricted areas.
Register for a Business License with the City of Las Vegas.
Pass a Health Inspection to ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit from the City of Las Vegas Business License Division.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a Certified Food Safety Course approved by the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, food truck operators must acquire multiple permits and licenses to operate legally:
Mobile Food Vending Permit: This permit is issued by the City of Las Vegas Business License Division. To obtain the permit, operators must submit an application, provide proof of health certification, pass a health inspection, and meet food safety standards. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification course that is approved by the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD).
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. Proof of the commissary’s licensing and operational capacity must be provided.
Business License: A business license from the City of Las Vegas is required to legally operate a food truck in the city. This can be obtained through the City’s Business License Division.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Las Vegas zoning laws that govern where food trucks can park and operate. Restrictions may apply near schools, parks, and other sensitive areas. Some areas require special location-based or event-specific permits.
Cost of Business Permit
$300 - $500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Las Vegas
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD). Inspections assess food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking appliances, and sanitation systems.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Course approved by SNHD before applying for the mobile food vending permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and proper refrigeration to meet local health and safety codes. These features will be inspected during the health inspection process.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Las Vegas
Food trucks are permitted to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 2:00 a.m. in most areas. Extended hours may apply in specific entertainment districts or during special events, but event organizers must ensure proper permits are obtained.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Las Vegas
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment, including propane tanks, grills, or deep fryers, must undergo an inspection by the Las Vegas Fire and Rescue. The truck must meet fire safety standards, including having the necessary fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and safety equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating a truck with cooking equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Las Vegas
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours, unless special permission is granted.
Zoning and Parking Restrictions: Food trucks must comply with Las Vegas’ zoning regulations, which restrict where trucks can park and operate, especially near schools, parks, and high-traffic areas. Certain streets or areas may have additional parking restrictions.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or gatherings may require special event permits. Event organizers usually manage these permits, and food truck operators should contact them for specific guidelines.
Location-Specific Rules: Trucks operating in certain commercial or entertainment districts may be subject to extended hours or other specific conditions. Vendors should check local guidelines for their specific operating area.
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.