Paterson
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Paterson
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Paterson
Mobile Food Vendor License: To operate a food truck in Paterson, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor License. The application process involves submitting the required forms, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Passaic County Department of Health. The license is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks must pass an inspection by the Passaic County Department of Health to ensure compliance with food safety standards. The inspection includes checks for food handling, storage, refrigeration, and sanitation. The health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must obtain a business license from the City of Paterson. This ensures the food truck is legally authorized to operate within the city and must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Paterson has specific zoning regulations that determine where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks must adhere to designated zones or obtain special permits for certain locations, including avoiding operating near schools, residential zones, or other restricted areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$440
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Paterson
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Passaic County Department of Health. Inspections include checks for food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, food handling practices, and equipment safety.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and staff must complete a food safety certification course approved by the state of New Jersey. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must maintain proper sanitation systems, handwashing stations, waste disposal, and ensure food is stored and served at safe temperatures. They must also operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Paterson
Food trucks can operate from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with extended hours possible for special events or as authorized by the city.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Paterson
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Paterson Fire Department. This ensures the truck complies with fire safety standards, including the proper installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate is required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Paterson
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of schools during school hours, unless granted an exemption by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. Additional documentation and event-specific rules may apply.
Food trucks must comply with Paterson’s zoning codes, which regulate where they can park, the hours they can operate, and restrictions for specific areas, such as residential zones.
Vendors are encouraged to comply with the Paterson Green Initiative, promoting sustainability through waste management, recycling, and energy-efficient operations.
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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