[Free 2025 Guide] How to Start a Food Truck in North Dakota
Networking with other food truck owners in North Dakota can provide valuable insights and opportunities for collaboration. In North Dakota, it's important to understand the local food service regulations and obtain the necessary permits for operating a food truck. One should identify strategic locations and events in North Dakota that attract a large crowd, ideal for a food truck business.
Example
Food Trucks in North Dakota
Little Bangkok
Thai food
York's Barbeque Pit
BBQ
Tacos La Mexicana LLC
Mexican food
Summarized Business Regulations for Cottage Food Laws in North Dakota
A cottage food operator is someone who prepares or packages certain types of food in a kitchen meant for personal use within a private home. These operators typically create their goods in small quantities, complying with specific regulations that permit them to sell directly to consumers without needing a commercial kitchen. The focus is on homemade, small-scale production, often involving items like baked goods, jams, or other non-perishable food items.
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How to Register and Title Your Food Truck in North Dakota [2025]
In North Dakota, food trailers must be registered if they have a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 3,000 lbs or more. The registration fee for trailers under 10,000 lbs is $75 for a one-year tag, while trailers over 10,000 lbs pay a $150 fee for a two-year registration.
To register, you must provide a completed Title and Registration Application (Form SFN 2872), proof of insurance, and proof of ownership (such as a bill of sale or manufacturer’s certificate). If you are transferring a trailer from another state, you must also provide a VIN verification.
Insurance Coverage for Food Trailers in North Dakota
Food trailers in North Dakota with a GVWR of 10,000 lbs or more must undergo a VIN inspection. The cost for this inspection is $10 and can be performed by the Highway Patrol or at authorized DMV locations.
Trailers under this weight do not require any inspection unless the title is being transferred from out of state. No emissions testing is required for trailers.
North Dakota Food Trailer Height, Width, and Length Limits
North Dakota limits trailer dimensions to 8.5 feet in width, 13.5 feet in height, and 65 feet in combined vehicle-trailer length. If your food trailer exceeds these limits, you will need to apply for an oversize permit, which costs $25 for a single trip.
Applications for permits must be submitted at least 48 hours before the intended travel date. Oversize permits are required for both width and length violations.
North Dakota Food Trailer Braking System Requirements
North Dakota requires food trailers with a GVWR of 3,000 lbs or more to have a separate braking system. Electric brakes are the most commonly used and are acceptable.
Trailers with a GVWR under 3,000 lbs do not require a separate braking system. However, if the trailer is over 10,000 lbs, a backup braking system is also required for additional safety.
Lighting, Reflectors, and Safety Chains Requirements for Food Trailers in North Dakota
In North Dakota, food trailers must be equipped with two red tail lights visible from at least 500 feet and amber reflectors on both sides. Trailers must also have functional turn signals, brake lights, and at least one safety chain to connect the trailer to the towing vehicle. The safety chain must be rated to handle the full GVWR of the trailer. Additional lighting requirements include rear marker lights for trailers over 16 feet in length.