What Are the Rules for Food Trucks in Florida?

If you dream of selling your specialized food, a food truck is a great way to go where your customers are around Ft Lauderdale. Despite the perception that starting a food truck business is simpler and less burdensome than establishing a traditional brick-and-mortar restaurant, the reality is that several licenses and permits are necessary before officially launching your business. If you are new to the world of mobile food ventures, adhering to state regulations is crucial for building success for your business. Learn about the food truck requirements in Florida to make your dreams a reality. When you’re ready to find the perfect vehicle for your business, discuss your needs with our team at William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales and use our vehicle finder service to detail what you need. 

Food Truck Requirements in Florida: Establishing Your Business

Many permits and licenses are controlled by local government agencies of the city or county you live in. To avoid future issues, be sure to acquire an applicable permit for each jurisdiction you’ll be operating in.

When applying for a Florida business license, you’ll first need to register an EIN with the IRS. From there, you’ll decide on a business name, what business classification you’ll be, a business address and phone number, and a bank account for the company. You’ll also be required to get a certificate of insurance (COI) and demonstrate a proof of concept through a business plan to register your company with the state and county.

Food Truck Requirements in Florida

Whether you’re selling prepackaged food or preparing your favorite recipes, you’ll need a few licenses and permits to operate on the streets of Orlando:

Florida Business License

A business license is one of the first food truck requirements in Florida. The steps above can help you establish your business. Also known as a business tax certificate, it helps your business stay above board when tax season comes. Be sure to consider the local requirements for the area you’ll be operating.

Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle License

To sell from a mobile unit like a food truck or trailer, you need a mobile food vendor permit. This permit ensures compliance with local food and worker safety standards. Acquiring this license means the space where you’ll be selling adheres to the standards for preparing, sanitizing, and storing food safely.

Food Handler’s License (Employee Health Permit)

The food handler’s license is a mandatory requirement for food trucks to safely sell and serve food. Every individual involved in your food truck business must be knowledgeable about maintaining clean and safe food stations to prevent foodborne illnesses. Employees are required to obtain their food handler’s license within 30 days of employment by passing a food safety and preparation test.

Public Health Permit

In most counties, you are required to obtain a Public Health Permit, or you’re subject to shutdown by the Florida Health and Safety Code. You’ll need to apply at your local public health department, prepare your facility for inspection, and review all food safety requirements. If you’re planning on preparing meat and fish, you’ll be subject to more strict inspections and requirements. 

Food Seller’s Permit

The Food Seller’s Permit is for any business that sells food or drinks. This allows you to charge sales tax on your goods and helps you stay on top of tax regulations as you begin making sales. 

Liquor License

If you intend to sell alcohol, it is not likely that you will obtain a full liquor license. Food trucks typically receive a temporary or short-term license for special events, but alcohol sales are commonly not a part of food truck business plans around Palm Beach.

Inspections and Food Truck Laws

While a food truck is more flexible, it still adheres to many of the same regulations as a brick-and-mortar restaurant. In addition to the permits and licenses above, you must comply with local fire safety regulations, food safety ordinances, OSHA regulations, parking regulations, driver’s license laws, and more. 
 

Search For the Right Food Truck with William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales!

If you’re ready to take on Florida Food truck requirements and open the business you’ve been dreaming of, the team at William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales is ready to help find a reliable truck for your needs. Use our payment calculator to estimate how a truck will fit your budget, then discuss your financing options with the William Lehman Van, Truck, and Bus Sales finance team.