Charlotte
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Charlotte
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Charlotte
To operate a food truck in Charlotte, several permits and licenses are required:
Mobile Food Unit Permit: This permit is issued by the City of Charlotte’s Environmental Health Division. To obtain the permit, applicants must submit an application, pass an inspection, and demonstrate compliance with health and safety standards.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Certification program recognized by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS).
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks are required to use a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Proof of this arrangement must be provided to the Environmental Health Division.
Business License: A business license is required to operate any business in Charlotte. This must be obtained from the City of Charlotte's Business Tax Division.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Charlotte’s zoning laws, which include location restrictions, particularly near schools, parks, and other high-traffic areas. Some areas may require special location permits or additional event-specific permits.
Cost of Business Permit
$200 - $400
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Charlotte
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Environmental Health Division. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, cooking appliances, and sanitation practices.
Food Safety Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler’s Certificate before applying for the mobile food unit permit. This certification ensures that operators are knowledgeable about food safety and handling practices.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must be equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and adequate refrigeration for perishable items. These features are necessary to comply with local health codes.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Charlotte
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., with extended hours possible in entertainment districts or for special events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Charlotte
Fire Safety: Food trucks with propane tanks, grills, fryers, or other cooking equipment must schedule an inspection with the Charlotte Fire Department. Trucks must meet local fire safety standards, including fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other equipment. A fire safety inspection certificate is required for trucks with cooking equipment before they are allowed to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Charlotte
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless special permission is granted.
Zoning and Parking Restrictions: Food trucks must adhere to Charlotte’s zoning and parking regulations. Certain high-traffic areas, including near schools and parks, may have restrictions on food truck operations.
Special Event Permits: If operating at festivals or special events, food trucks may require additional permits. Event organizers typically manage the permitting process for these events.
Location-Specific Rules: Food trucks operating in entertainment districts or high-traffic areas may have extended hours or other location-specific rules to follow.
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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