Food Truck Safety & Compliance Guide
Stay compliant and safe with our comprehensive guide to food truck regulations and safety standards.
Health Department Requirements
Critical Compliance Areas
- • Food handling and storage temperatures
- • Hand washing stations and sanitizing
- • Equipment cleaning and maintenance
- • Water and waste management systems
- • Pest control measures
Required Equipment
- • Three-compartment sink
- • Hand washing sink
- • Refrigeration with thermometers
- • Hot holding equipment
- • Approved water system
Documentation
- • Food handler certifications
- • Equipment specifications
- • Water testing reports
- • Cleaning schedules
- • Temperature logs
Fire Safety Requirements
Fire Suppression Systems
Commercial fire suppression systems are mandatory for most food truck operations:
- • ANSUL or equivalent automatic fire suppression
- • Proper installation by certified technicians
- • Regular inspection and maintenance
- • Manual activation controls
- • Integration with ventilation systems
Fire Extinguishers
Portable fire extinguishers provide additional protection:
- • Class K extinguishers for cooking oils
- • Class C extinguishers for electrical fires
- • Proper mounting and accessibility
- • Regular inspections and certifications
- • Staff training on proper use
Permits and Licensing
Federal
- • EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- • DOT Commercial Vehicle License
- • FDA Food Facility Registration
State
- • Business License
- • Sales Tax Permit
- • Food Service License
- • Vehicle Registration
Local
- • Mobile Vendor Permit
- • Health Department Permit
- • Fire Department Approval
- • Parking/Location Permits
Compliance Checklist
Equipment Safety
All equipment NSF certified
Fire suppression system installed
Ventilation system approved
Electrical systems inspected
Documentation
All permits current
Insurance certificates valid
Staff certifications up to date
Emergency procedures documented