Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Dallas
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Dallas
In Dallas, food truck entrepreneurs need to obtain several permits to legally operate:
Mobile Food Unit (MFU) Permit: Issued by Dallas County Health and Human Services (HHS), this is required to operate a food truck. To obtain this permit, operators must submit an application, pass a health inspection, and provide proof of food safety certification.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete an accredited food safety course approved by the county before applying for the MFU permit.
Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate out of a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Proof of this relationship must be provided when applying for the permit.
Business License: A business license from the City of Dallas is required for all food truck operations.
Zoning and Location Permits: Trucks must comply with zoning restrictions, including parking in areas where food trucks are allowed and avoiding restricted zones.
Cost of Business Permit
$300 - $400
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annualy
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Dallas
Inspections: Food trucks in Dallas are required to pass annual health inspections conducted by Dallas County Health and Human Services (HHS). Inspections check for food storage, cleanliness, cooking equipment, and truck conditions.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a Food Safety Manager Certification course before applying for the permit to ensure that they understand safe food handling, preparation, and storage.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, proper waste disposal systems, and adequate refrigeration for perishable items. These must meet local sanitation and safety standards.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Dallas
Food trucks are generally allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. However, extended hours may be permitted in specific zones, especially in entertainment or event areas.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Dallas
Fire Safety: Food trucks with cooking equipment such as propane tanks, grills, or fryers must schedule an inspection with the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department. The truck must meet fire safety standards, including having appropriate fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and equipment. A fire inspection certificate is required for trucks with cooking equipment.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Dallas
Prohibited Areas: Food trucks are restricted from operating within 500 feet of school entrances during school hours.
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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