Charleston
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Charleston
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Charleston
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Charleston, vendors must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Charleston. The application process includes submitting an application, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by DHEC. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: Food trucks must undergo an inspection by DHEC to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. The inspection covers food storage, sanitation, refrigeration, and cooking equipment. A health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must also obtain a business license from the City of Charleston. This ensures the food truck is legally authorized to operate within the city and must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: Charleston has specific zoning regulations that govern where food trucks can park and operate. Food trucks are typically allowed to operate in designated zones, including public streets or special event areas. There are restrictions on operating near schools, residential zones, or specific public spaces.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Charleston
Inspections: All food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by DHEC. Inspections ensure food safety compliance, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and the cleanliness of equipment and facilities.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and employees must complete a food safety certification program approved by the state of South Carolina. The certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and meet local food safety standards. Additionally, food trucks are required to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Charleston
Food trucks can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with specific hours varying based on location or event-based permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Charleston
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must pass a fire safety inspection by the Charleston Fire Department. This ensures that the truck complies with fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Charleston
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of schools during school hours, unless authorized by the city.
Special event permits are required for food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings. These events may require additional documentation and specific event-related rules.
Food trucks must comply with Charleston's zoning codes, including where they can park, the hours they can operate, and whether additional permits are required for vending in certain areas.
Vendors are encouraged to participate in Charleston's sustainability initiatives, particularly regarding waste management and recycling practices for mobile food vendors.
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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