Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Cary
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Cary
To operate a food truck in Cary, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit through the Town of Cary. The application requires submission of necessary documentation, including a Food Protection Manager Certification accredited by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), and passing an annual health inspection by Wake County Environmental Services. Food trucks must meet sanitation and health safety standards, such as having a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Food trucks must also comply with Cary’s zoning regulations, which may restrict their operations near schools, parks, or busy intersections. Permits must be visibly displayed on the truck during operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Cary
Food trucks in Cary must pass an annual health inspection conducted by Wake County Environmental Services. Inspections assess food storage, refrigeration, cleanliness, and cooking equipment. Operators must complete a Food Protection Manager Certification approved by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) before applying for the permit. The truck must have a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Non-compliance with health regulations can result in fines or suspension of the operating permit.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Cary
Food trucks are allowed to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m., though hours may vary depending on zoning regulations or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Cary
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the Cary Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers and comply with fire safety standards. A fire suppression system may be required for trucks using certain cooking equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations to ensure compliance with local fire safety regulations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Cary
Zoning regulations in Cary govern where food trucks can operate. Vendors must comply with Cary’s zoning laws, which may restrict vending near schools, parks, or high-traffic areas unless special permits are granted.
Food trucks must comply with street parking regulations and may need to park in designated vending zones or adhere to specific parking rules.
Special events in Cary require additional permits. Food trucks wishing to participate in city festivals, markets, or public gatherings must apply for temporary event permits, which may have specific location and operating hour requirements.
Vendors are encouraged to consult the Town of Cary’s Food Truck Guidelines and Wake County’s Food Truck Resources for further details on operational requirements, health inspections, and location-based rules.
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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