North Charleston
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in North Charleston
Display all required permits and certificates visibly on the truck during operation.
Operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a certified food safety course and provide proof of certification.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of North Charleston.
Comply with North Charleston’s zoning, parking, and time-based regulations for food trucks.
Pass a health inspection conducted by the Charleston County Health Department or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).
Submit a completed mobile food vending application, including required documentation such as a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and health inspection certificate.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in North Charleston
In North Charleston, food trucks must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit through the City of North Charleston. The application requires submitting a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection conducted by the Charleston County Health Department or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Food trucks must operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. The city enforces zoning and parking regulations, specifying where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, residential areas, or other restricted zones. All required permits and certificates must be clearly displayed on the truck during operation.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in North Charleston
Food trucks in North Charleston must pass an inspection conducted by the Charleston County Health Department or the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). Inspections ensure compliance with food safety regulations, including food storage, cleanliness, and cooking equipment safety. Operators must complete a certified food safety course before applying for the permit. Food trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet health code standards for refrigeration and food safety equipment. Food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in North Charleston
Food trucks in North Charleston are generally permitted to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with extended hours allowed for special events or in designated high-traffic areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in North Charleston
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the North Charleston Fire Department. The fire department ensures that food trucks meet local fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and other necessary equipment. A fire safety certificate may be required before operating, particularly for trucks using propane or other heating equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in North Charleston
Food trucks in North Charleston must comply with local zoning and parking regulations that restrict where food trucks can operate, especially near schools, hospitals, or residential zones. Time-based restrictions may apply, especially during peak hours or near special events. Vendors wishing to operate during public events or festivals must apply for event-specific permits. Operators are encouraged to review the city's zoning updates and event regulations for any specific location-based or event-related requirements.
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.