McAllen
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in McAllen
Renew permits and inspections annually to remain compliant.
Ensure the food truck complies with zoning and location regulations, operating only in approved areas.
Pass an Annual Health Inspection conducted by the Hidalgo County Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of McAllen.
Display all required permits and licenses on the truck while operating.
Register the business with the City of McAllen and obtain a business license.
Complete a Food Safety Certification from a state-approved course.
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in McAllen
Mobile Food Vendor Permit: To operate a food truck in McAllen, vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit. This includes submitting the necessary forms, providing proof of food safety certification, and passing an inspection by the Hidalgo County Health Department. The permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Health Permit: All food trucks must undergo an inspection by the Hidalgo County Health Department to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. Inspections include checks for food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and cooking equipment. The health permit is required for operation and must be renewed annually.
Business License: Food truck operators must obtain a business license from the City of McAllen to legally operate within the city. This license must be renewed annually.
Zoning and Location: McAllen has specific zoning regulations for food trucks. Food trucks must operate in designated zones or obtain special permits for other areas. There are restrictions on operating near schools, residential zones, and other public spaces unless granted permission. The city also allows food trucks in Food Truck Parks, which are specially designated areas for food trucks to operate legally.
Cost of Business Permit
$300
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in McAllen
Inspections: Food trucks must pass an annual health inspection by the Hidalgo County Health Department. Inspections ensure compliance with food safety standards, including food storage, refrigeration, sanitation, and equipment.
Food Safety Certification: Operators and staff must complete a food safety certification course approved by the state of Texas. Certification must be renewed every 3 years.
Truck Requirements: Food trucks must have a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and ensure food is stored and served at safe temperatures. Additionally, food trucks must operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in McAllen
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., though these hours may vary depending on location-specific rules or special event permits.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in McAllen
Fire Safety Inspection: Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment (e.g., grills, fryers) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the McAllen Fire Department. This ensures the truck meets fire safety standards, including the installation of fire extinguishers, suppression systems, and grease traps. A fire safety certificate is required to operate.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in McAllen
Special Event Permits: Food trucks participating in public events, festivals, or private gatherings must obtain a special event permit. These events may have additional rules and requirements for food vendors.
Food Truck Parks: McAllen has designated Food Truck Parks, where food trucks can operate legally in a designated space. Operators must follow park-specific guidelines for operation.
Zoning Regulations: Food trucks must comply with McAllen’s zoning codes, which specify where they can park, the hours they can operate, and any restrictions on operating near schools, residential areas, or other specific zones.
Sustainability: McAllen encourages food trucks to follow sustainable practices, including waste management, recycling, and environmental standards.
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.