Columbus
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Columbus
Comply with Zoning and Location Restrictions, particularly in areas near schools or high-traffic zones.
Register for a Business License with the City of Columbus.
Pass an Initial Health Inspection to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Columbus Public Health Department.
Renew Permits Annually to maintain operational status.
Use a Licensed Commissary Kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal.
Complete a Certified Food Safety Course approved by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Columbus
Food truck operators in Columbus, Ohio, must secure multiple permits and licenses:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: Issued by the Columbus Public Health Department, this permit allows food trucks to operate within the city. Applicants must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and provide proof of food safety certification. This permit is required for each food truck and must be renewed annually.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager or Food Handler Certification course approved by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) before applying for the permit. The certification ensures food safety knowledge, including safe food handling, storage, and hygiene practices.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Proof of the kitchen’s licensing and location is required.
Business License: A business license must be obtained from the City of Columbus. This is necessary for operating any business in the city.
Zoning and Location Permits: Food trucks must comply with Columbus’ zoning laws, which may restrict operation near schools, parks, or certain high-traffic areas. Food trucks are also subject to parking restrictions, and special event permits may be needed for festivals or public events.
Cost of Business Permit
$300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Columbus
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an initial health inspection conducted by the Columbus Public Health Department. Inspections focus on food safety practices, sanitation, cooking equipment, and food storage conditions. Follow-up inspections are also required periodically to ensure ongoing compliance.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification or Food Handler Course that is accredited by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). This is mandatory before applying for the mobile food vendor permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, adequate waste disposal systems, and proper refrigeration to maintain food safety standards. These systems are checked during inspections.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Columbus
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m., but special event or entertainment districts may have extended hours. It is important to check local rules, especially if operating late into the evening or in high-traffic areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Columbus
Fire Safety: Food trucks with propane, grills, or deep fryers must undergo an inspection by the Columbus Fire Department. Fire safety checks include ensuring the truck has appropriate fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and other necessary safety measures. A fire inspection certificate may be required, especially for trucks with high-risk cooking equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Columbus
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are not allowed to operate within 500 feet of school entrances during school hours, and may be restricted near certain public parks or events.
Zoning Regulations: Food trucks must follow Columbus’ zoning laws, which dictate specific areas where food trucks can park and operate. These regulations are designed to ensure that food trucks do not disrupt residential areas or create traffic hazards.
Special Event Permits: If operating at festivals or public events, food trucks may need additional permits. Event organizers typically coordinate these special permits and fees.
Parking Compliance: Food trucks must adhere to local parking regulations to avoid fines, especially in high-traffic or residential zones. In some cases, parking may be restricted to designated zones.
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.