Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Newark
Comply with local zoning regulations and location restrictions.
Obtain a fire inspection for any cooking equipment used (grills, fryers, etc.).
Pass an initial health inspection conducted by the City of Newark Health Division.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City of Newark Health Division.
Renew your Mobile Food Vendor License annually.
Ensure the food truck operates from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a Food Safety Certification (required for operators or key staff).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Newark
To legally operate in Newark, food truck operators must acquire several permits:
Mobile Food Vendor License: Issued by the City of Newark Health Division. This is required for all mobile food units operating within city limits. The application process involves submitting an application, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification. This certification can be obtained from accredited programs such as ServSafe, ensuring that food handling and sanitation practices are followed.
Health Inspection: Food trucks must undergo an inspection by the City of Newark Health Division to verify compliance with local food safety regulations. The inspection covers food storage, cleanliness, and equipment standards.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage. The kitchen must meet health department standards.
Business License: In addition to the mobile food vendor license, food truck operators may also need a general business license from the City of Newark, depending on the structure of their operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$500
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Newark
Food trucks in Newark must meet several health-related standards:
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an initial health inspection by the City of Newark Health Division. The inspection focuses on food safety, cleanliness, food storage, and equipment standards such as refrigeration and cooking appliances.
Food Safety Certification: At least one person on the truck (typically the operator) must have a Food Safety Manager Certification. This ensures that proper food handling and safety standards are followed.
Truck-Specific Requirements: The food truck must have an onboard handwashing station, appropriate waste disposal systems, and comply with sanitation requirements. Additionally, food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Newark
Food trucks can typically operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. but may be subject to additional local zoning and time-based restrictions depending on the area. Operating hours may differ in certain districts, such as near schools or residential zones.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Newark
Fire inspections are required for food trucks with cooking equipment such as propane grills, fryers, or other heat-producing appliances. The Newark Fire Department conducts these inspections to ensure that fire safety regulations are followed.
Vendors must have appropriate fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other required fire safety equipment. A fire safety certificate may also be necessary before beginning operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Newark
Zoning Restrictions: Food trucks in Newark must comply with local zoning regulations which may limit where they can operate. Trucks may not be allowed to park in certain residential zones or near schools without special permits.
Special Events: Food trucks operating at special events, fairs, or festivals in Newark may require additional permits. Event organizers will typically arrange for temporary permits for mobile food vendors.
Parking Restrictions: Food trucks must follow city rules regarding where they can park. This may include regulations on distance from specific types of establishments or restrictions near bus stops and intersections.
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.