Raleigh
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Raleigh
Display your Mobile Food Vending Permit and health inspection certificates prominently on your truck.
Ensure your truck has a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and fire safety equipment.
Pass an initial health inspection conducted by the Raleigh Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit from the City of Raleigh.
Renew your permits annually to maintain operational status.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a certified Food Protection Manager course before applying for the permit.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Raleigh
Food trucks in Raleigh are required to obtain a Mobile Food Vending Permit, which is issued by the City of Raleigh. The application process includes submitting proof of completion of a certified Food Protection Manager course, passing a health inspection, and complying with food safety and sanitation regulations. Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. The permit is valid for one year, and trucks must display the Mobile Food Vending Permit and health inspection certificate on the truck at all times. Additional permits may be required for trucks operating in specific districts or on private property.
Cost of Business Permit
$350
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Raleigh
Food trucks in Raleigh must pass an initial health inspection and an annual inspection conducted by the Raleigh Health Department. Inspections include checks for food storage, sanitation, equipment standards (e.g., refrigeration, cooking appliances), and cleanliness. Operators are required to complete a Food Protection Manager Certification course to ensure they understand food safety. Trucks must be equipped with a handwashing station, a waste disposal system, and meet sanitation standards. Food trucks must also be affiliated with a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation, and this affiliation must be documented.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Raleigh
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., with possible extended hours for special events and festivals.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Raleigh
Food trucks using propane, grills, or deep fryers must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Raleigh Fire Department. Vendors are required to ensure that fire extinguishers and suppression systems are in place, and that their equipment complies with local fire safety standards. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations if cooking equipment is used.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Raleigh
Food trucks in Raleigh must comply with local zoning and parking regulations, including restrictions on operating near schools, daycare centers, and healthcare facilities. Trucks must also avoid operating on public streets where parking is restricted. Special events and festivals may require additional permits or temporary licenses for food trucks, and extended operating hours may apply during these events. Food trucks must review the City of Raleigh’s specific event requirements before participating.
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.