Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Salem
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Salem
Mobile Food Unit (MFU) Business License: To operate a food truck in Salem, operators must apply for a Mobile Food Unit Business License from the City of Salem. This includes submitting an application, completing food safety training, and passing a Marion County Public Health inspection.
Health Permit: The Marion County Public Health Department is responsible for inspecting food trucks for health and safety compliance. The inspection covers food handling, sanitation, storage, refrigeration, and cooking equipment. The health permit must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Salem has specific zoning regulations that dictate where food trucks can operate. Some areas, like near schools or residential zones, may have additional restrictions. Operators must ensure they are parking and vending in areas where it is permitted by local laws.
Cost of Business Permit
$40.00 application fee
$60.00 per unit license fee annually
$12.50 processing fee
$5.00 automation surcharge
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Salem
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual inspection conducted by Marion County Public Health. The inspection checks food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation systems.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a state-approved food safety certification course. This certification is required before applying for the mobile food unit license and must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored at safe temperatures. Trucks must also use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Salem
Food trucks can operate from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with special permissions for extended hours in certain zones or for events.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Salem
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking equipment (such as grills, fryers, or ovens) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Salem Fire Department. This ensures the truck meets fire safety standards, including the proper installation of fire extinguishers, grease traps, and fire suppression systems. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Salem
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of schools during school hours.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at public events, festivals, or large gatherings.
Operators must follow specific local parking regulations, and only park in designated areas for mobile food units.
The city has designated areas and food truck pods where vending is allowed, and operators should check local zoning maps to ensure compliance with all regulations.
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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