Milwaukee
Table of Contents
State
Basic Checklist to Start a Food Truck in Milwaukee
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City Specific Permit Background for Food Trucks in Milwaukee
In Milwaukee, food trucks must acquire a Mobile Food Vendor License issued by the City of Milwaukee Health Department. The process involves submitting an application, completing a Food Protection Manager course, and passing a health inspection. The license requires food trucks to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage and preparation. Food trucks must also comply with zoning laws, avoiding restricted areas such as school zones or hospitals. Operators must display their license and health inspection certificate on the truck at all times. There are specific local conditions that apply to street vendors, including parking and operating in certain districts, and adherence to these conditions is mandatory.
Cost of Business Permit
$150
How Often Business Permit needs to be Renewed
Annually
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Health Requirements for Food Trucks in Milwaukee
Food trucks in Milwaukee must undergo an initial health inspection and pass annual inspections conducted by the Milwaukee Health Department. Inspections include checks for food storage, cleanliness, safety standards for cooking equipment, and sanitation practices. Operators are required to complete a certified Food Protection Manager course, which ensures they understand food safety regulations. Trucks must have an onboard handwashing station, waste disposal systems, and a fire extinguisher. Additionally, all food preparation must occur in a licensed commissary kitchen, and proof of this affiliation is required for permit issuance.
Permitted Operating Hours for Food Trucks in Milwaukee
Food trucks are allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with exceptions for special events and festivals that may allow extended hours.
Notable Fire Requirements for Food Trucks in Milwaukee
Food trucks in Milwaukee with cooking or heating equipment, such as propane tanks, grills, or fryers, must pass a fire safety inspection by the Milwaukee Fire Department. Trucks must have fire extinguishers and meet local fire safety standards, including installation of fire suppression systems where required. A fire safety certificate may be required before beginning operations.
Other Local Notes for Operating a Food Truck in Milwaukee
Food trucks in Milwaukee must comply with specific zoning regulations and are prohibited from operating within a certain distance from schools, hospitals, and other restricted areas. Vendors must also adhere to parking regulations, which may vary by district. Special event organizers may require additional permits for food trucks to operate at festivals or events, and these permits may include extended operating hours. It's important to check with the city for any specific restrictions or updates to local ordinances, especially during peak event seasons.
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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