Chattanooga
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Chattanooga
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Chattanooga
To operate a food truck in Chattanooga, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit through the City of Chattanooga. The application process involves completing an application form, providing documentation of a Food Protection Manager Certification approved by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA), and passing an annual health inspection conducted by the Hamilton County Health Department. Food trucks are required to meet sanitation and food safety standards, including having a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Vendors must also comply with local zoning regulations, which may restrict vending near schools, parks, or high-traffic areas. Permits must be visibly displayed on the truck.
Cost of Business Permit
$250
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Chattanooga
Food trucks in Chattanooga must pass an annual health inspection conducted by the Hamilton County Health Department. Inspections assess food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking appliances, and waste disposal systems. Operators must complete a Food Protection Manager Certification approved by TDA before applying for the permit. The truck must have a handwashing station, waste disposal system, and refrigeration. Food must be prepared and stored at a licensed commissary kitchen. Non-compliance with health regulations can result in fines or permit suspension.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Chattanooga
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but specific hours may vary based on zoning restrictions or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Chattanooga
Food trucks using cooking equipment such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the Chattanooga Fire Department. The truck must be equipped with fire extinguishers and comply with fire safety standards. A fire suppression system may be required for certain cooking equipment. A fire safety certificate may be necessary before beginning operations to ensure compliance with local fire safety regulations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Chattanooga
Zoning restrictions in Chattanooga govern where food trucks can operate. Vendors must adhere to city zoning codes, which restrict vending near schools, parks, or in other high-traffic areas unless special permissions are granted.
Food trucks must follow street parking regulations and may need to use designated vending zones or pay for metered parking.
Special events in Chattanooga may require additional permits. Food trucks wishing to participate in city festivals or public events must apply for temporary event permits, which may come with specific time and location restrictions.
Food trucks are encouraged to review the Chattanooga Mobile Food Vendor Guide for details on operating within specific areas of the city and complying with local zoning laws.
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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