Columbia
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Columbia
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Columbia
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in Columbia, operators must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit issued by the City of Columbia Business License Department.
Steps to Obtain: Submit an application, provide proof of liability insurance, and undergo a background check. Operators must also pass an annual health inspection from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Additionally, operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification course approved by DHEC.
Unique Rules: Columbia has specific zoning and parking restrictions, which means food trucks can only operate in designated areas, particularly in commercial or business zones. They are prohibited from operating near schools or residential areas without special permits. The city also has restrictions on vending in certain public spaces and at specific times (e.g., near downtown or high-traffic areas).
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Columbia
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Inspections check food safety practices, including proper food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and cleanliness.
Food Safety Manager Certification: Operators are required to complete a Food Safety Manager Certification course that is approved by DHEC. This ensures the operator understands food handling, sanitation, and safety practices.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must meet health and safety standards, including having handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meeting equipment standards for refrigeration and food safety. Additionally, food trucks are required to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Columbia
Food trucks in Columbia are generally allowed to operate from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. daily. Special permits may be required for extended hours or operation during special events or locations.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Columbia
Fire Inspections: Food trucks that use cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, or propane must undergo a fire inspection by the Columbia Fire Department.
Food trucks must ensure they have appropriate fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and meet local fire safety standards.
A fire safety certificate may be required before starting operations, especially if the truck uses open flames or flammable materials.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Columbia
Zoning and Location Restrictions: Food trucks are required to operate in designated areas, and specific zoning laws in Columbia govern where food trucks can park and serve food. Trucks are prohibited from vending in certain areas (e.g., residential zones or within a specific distance from schools) without a special permit.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks wishing to operate at public events, such as festivals, markets, or special occasions in Columbia, must apply for additional permits. Event-specific regulations may include additional fees, requirements, and specific operating times.
Downtown Columbia: Food trucks are popular in downtown areas, but specific locations and parking permits may be required to set up in these high-traffic zones. Operators should confirm designated vending zones with the city’s business licensing department.
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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