Virginia Beach
Table of Contents
State

Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Virginia Beach
Renew your permits annually to maintain operational status.
Display permits visibly on your truck while operating.
Schedule and pass a health inspection by the Virginia Beach Health Department.
Obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Virginia Beach.
Follow zoning laws and avoid restricted operating zones, such as near schools or parks.
Use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation and storage.
Complete a food safety certification course (e.g., ServSafe) before submitting your application.

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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Virginia Beach
Permit Type: Mobile Food Vendor Permit, issued by the City of Virginia Beach.
Steps to Obtain:
Submit an application with proof of food safety certification and health inspection.
Trucks must undergo an annual inspection by the Virginia Beach Health Department to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Operators must provide documentation of using a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation.
Unique Rules:
Food trucks must comply with Virginia Beach’s zoning laws and can only operate in designated areas.
Some areas, like city parks or near schools, may have time-based restrictions or permit limitations.
Cost of Business Permit
$200
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Virginia Beach
Inspections: Annual inspections are required and are conducted by the Virginia Beach Health Department. Inspections cover food storage, cleanliness, cooking appliances, and sanitation systems.
Food Safety Certification: Operators must complete a certified food safety course (e.g., ServSafe) before applying for a permit.
Truck-Specific Requirements: Trucks must be equipped with a handwashing station, waste disposal systems, refrigeration for food storage, and meet food safety standards.


Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Virginia Beach
Food trucks can operate from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with restrictions near schools during school hours.

Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Virginia Beach
Food trucks with cooking equipment such as grills, deep fryers, or propane tanks must undergo a fire inspection by the Virginia Beach Fire Department.
Vendors are required to have fire extinguishers and suppression systems, as well as comply with local fire safety standards.
A fire safety certificate may be required before commencing operations.


Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Virginia Beach
Food trucks are prohibited from operating within 500 feet of a school during school hours.
Trucks are not allowed to operate in certain parks or residential areas due to local zoning laws.
Special events may require additional permits or temporary restrictions.
Trucks must comply with street parking restrictions, especially when operating near busy areas or downtown.
Vendors are encouraged to check local event schedules and apply for additional permits when necessary for city festivals or gatherings.
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.