Norfolk
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Norfolk
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Norfolk
Food trucks in Norfolk must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Norfolk.
Types of Permits:
Mobile Food Vendor Permit (City of Norfolk).
Health Permit (Virginia Department of Health - VDH).
Fire Safety Inspection Permit (Norfolk Fire-Rescue Department).
Zoning/Location Permit (if required for specific areas or events).
Steps for Obtaining the Permit:
Submit a completed application for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit to the City of Norfolk.
Complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
Pass an annual health inspection by the Norfolk Department of Public Health to ensure food safety and sanitation compliance.
Schedule and pass a fire safety inspection by the Norfolk Fire-Rescue Department if using cooking equipment like grills, fryers, or propane.
Apply for a zoning permit from the City of Norfolk if operating in specific districts or during special events.
Provide proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Unique Rules/Conditions:
Food trucks must operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and dishwashing.
Zoning regulations apply to food trucks, particularly in residential or restricted areas.
A special event permit is required to operate at festivals, public gatherings, or city events.
Cost of Business Permit
$225
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Norfolk
Inspections: Food trucks in Norfolk must pass an annual health inspection by the Norfolk Department of Public Health. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, refrigeration, cooking equipment, and sanitation.
Food Safety Certifications: Operators must complete a Food Safety Certification course approved by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) before applying for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements:
Handwashing stations with soap, paper towels, and warm water.
Proper waste disposal systems to meet local health regulations.
Proof of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and cleaning.
Compliance with cleanliness standards for refrigeration and cooking equipment.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Norfolk
Food trucks in Norfolk are typically allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., but special event permits may allow for extended operating hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Norfolk
Food trucks using cooking equipment (e.g., grills, fryers, or propane) must undergo a fire safety inspection by the Norfolk Fire-Rescue Department.
A fire suppression system is required for food trucks using cooking equipment.
Fire safety certificates may be required before starting operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Norfolk
Food trucks must comply with zoning regulations, especially near schools, residential areas, or high-traffic locations.
Special event permits are required for food trucks operating at city-sponsored events, festivals, and fairs, which may allow for extended hours or location flexibility.
Trucks are prohibited from operating within 200 feet of school entrances during school hours unless approved by the city.
Food truck vendors may also need a right-of-way permit if operating on public streets.
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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