Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Odessa
Display Permits and Certificates: Ensure that all necessary permits and certificates are clearly displayed on the truck during operation.
Use an Approved Commissary Kitchen: Food trucks must operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation.
Complete a Certified Food Safety Course: Operators must complete a certified food safety course (e.g., ServSafe) and provide proof of certification.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit: Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit through the City of Odessa Health Department.
Comply with Odessa’s Zoning, Parking, and Time-Based Regulations: Food trucks must comply with local zoning and parking regulations, which specify where food trucks can park and operate.
Pass Health Inspections: Food trucks must pass an inspection by the Ector County Health Department or the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
Submit a Completed Application: The application should include 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 Odessa
To operate a food truck in Odessa, food vendors must apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit through the City of Odessa Health Department. The application includes submitting a completed form, a valid business license, proof of food safety certification, and passing a health inspection conducted by the Ector County Health Department or the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Food trucks must also operate from an approved commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. Odessa enforces zoning and parking regulations, specifying where food trucks can park and operate, particularly in residential and commercial districts. All necessary permits and certificates must be displayed on the truck while operating.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Odessa
Food trucks in Odessa must pass an inspection by the Ector County Health Department or Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Inspections ensure compliance with food safety standards, including food storage, cleanliness, and cooking equipment safety. Operators must complete a certified food safety course, such as ServSafe, before applying for the permit. Trucks must have handwashing stations, waste disposal systems, and meet health code standards for refrigeration and other food safety equipment. Food must be prepared and stored in an approved commissary kitchen.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Odessa
Mobile food trucks in Odessa, Texas are permitted to operate from 6 a.m–12 a.m Sunday through Wednesday and 6 AM–3:30 AM Thursday through Saturday. Mobile food trucks must also be moved at least once every 24 hours and cannot remain stationary.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Odessa
Food trucks with cooking or heating equipment, such as grills, fryers, or propane tanks, must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Odessa Fire Department. The fire department ensures that food trucks meet local fire safety standards, including having 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 Odessa
Food trucks in Odessa must comply with local zoning laws, which restrict where they can operate, particularly near schools, residential zones, or specific commercial districts. The city also enforces parking regulations and imposes time-based restrictions during peak hours or special events. Food trucks wishing to operate at city festivals, fairs, or other public events must apply for special event permits. These permits may have additional requirements depending on the event. Operators should verify with the City of Odessa for any location-specific or event-related requirements and updates to food truck-related ordinances.
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.