Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Waco
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Waco
Food Truck Permit: In Waco, food truck operators must obtain a Food Truck Permit from the City of Waco’s Planning and Zoning Department.
Steps to Obtain: Submit an application, provide proof of insurance, undergo a background check, and pass a health inspection from the Waco-McLennan County Health District. Operators must also complete a Food Manager Certification course approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
Unique Rules: Food trucks must comply with zoning and location restrictions. Waco has designated areas for food trucks, and they are prohibited from operating in certain residential zones or within specific distances from schools unless granted special permission.
Cost of Business Permit
$265
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Waco
Inspections: Food trucks must pass health inspections conducted by the Waco-McLennan County Health District. Inspections ensure that food safety practices are followed, covering areas like food storage, cleanliness, and equipment maintenance (e.g., refrigeration, cooking equipment).
Food Manager Certification: Operators must complete a Food Manager Certification course, which is accredited by the Texas Department of State Health Services. This course ensures that operators are knowledgeable about food safety and handling.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Food trucks are required to have onboard handwashing stations, proper waste disposal systems, and meet sanitation requirements. Food trucks must also operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Waco
Food trucks in Waco are allowed to operate from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. daily. Extended hours may apply with special permits for events or designated locations.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Waco
Fire Inspections: Food trucks that use cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, or propane tanks) must undergo a fire safety inspection with the Waco Fire Department.
Vendors must have proper fire extinguishers, fire suppression systems, and equipment that meets local fire safety standards.
A fire safety certificate is required if the food truck uses any cooking equipment that involves open flames or flammable materials.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Waco
Location and Zoning Restrictions: Food trucks must park in approved areas, and they are restricted from operating in residential areas or near schools during school hours without specific permission.
Special Event Permits: Food trucks wishing to operate at special events, festivals, or the Waco Farmers Market must apply for additional event-specific permits. Event organizers will provide the necessary guidelines for participation.
Temporary Vending Areas: The City of Waco has specific guidelines for temporary food truck vending, and operators are encouraged to check with the Planning and Zoning Department for information about available areas and permitted locations.
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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