Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Akron
Pay all required license fees, including site assessment and application processing fees.
Submit a menu or list of food and beverages to be sold, and include an overhead layout of the mobile unit.
Complete a commissary agreement if necessary and submit it with your application.
Pass a pre-licensing inspection conducted by Summit County Public Health.
Ensure your mobile unit complies with the Mobile Food Operations checklist, including sinks, refrigeration, and signage requirements.
Obtain a Mobile Food Operation License from Summit County Public Health.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Akron
Food trucks in Akron must obtain a Mobile Food Operation License as mandated by Ohio law and comply with the Ohio Administrative Code (O.A.C. 3717-1). To secure the license, operators must submit an application, a commissary agreement if applicable, and an overhead layout of the unit showing essential features like sinks and storage. They must also pass a pre-licensing inspection to confirm compliance with food safety regulations. All equipment must be commercial grade and approved by a recognized testing agency such as NSF or UL. Mobile units must also meet additional local zoning and peddler's permit requirements if operating in specific areas.
Cost of Business Permit
$225
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Akron
Food trucks must pass an annual inspection by Summit County Public Health. They are required to have a handwashing sink with hot and cold water, a three-compartment sink, and adequate potable water and wastewater systems. Operators must demonstrate food safety knowledge and provide vomit and diarrhea clean-up procedures and an employee illness policy. Commissaries must be used if the unit cannot meet all food preparation and equipment cleaning needs on-site. Food must be from approved sources and prepared either in the mobile unit or a licensed commissary.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Akron
Food trucks may operate in compliance with local zoning and traffic ordinances. Food trucks in Ohio can operate from 6 a.m - 12 a.m. Additional restrictions may apply depending on the specific location of operation.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Akron
Mobile food units must meet fire safety standards, including adequate ventilation, proper storage of propane or fuel, and access to fire extinguishers. The use of custom-made equipment like BBQ pits must be approved on a case-by-case basis.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Akron
Food trucks must display their original license at all times during operation. Copies are not accepted and can lead to suspension. Trucks must include the business name, city of origin, and phone number on the exterior of the unit in letters at least 3 inches high and 1 inch wide. Additional inspections may be required if operating outside Summit County.
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.