What licenses and permits are required to open a food truck in the Arizona state?

Jan 22, 2024 | 2 min read

Opening a food truck in Arizona, specifically in Maricopa County, requires obtaining a state license for your mobile food unit and a Mobile Food Establishment Permit from the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department. The type of permit required depends on the nature of your food truck operation. It's also important to check with local/city authorities to ensure compliance with their rules and regulations.

1. State License for Mobile Food Unit

  • Purpose: This license is for a food establishment that is readily movable and dispenses food or beverages for immediate service and consumption from any vehicle. It's required to operate a food truck in Arizona.
  • How to Register: The application process for this license is not specified in the provided content. However, it's mentioned that if you plan to operate in a county different from the one that issued your state license, you may need to apply for a permit to conduct business within that county.

2. Mobile Food Establishment Permit

  • Purpose: This permit allows you to operate a food truck at various locations within Maricopa County. There are three types of Mobile Food permits: Type I, II, and III, depending on the nature of your food truck operation.
  • Estimated Cost: The permit fees vary depending on the type of permit. For example, the annual permit fee for Mobile Food Type I is $120/year/unit, while for Mobile Food Type III, it's $610/year/unit.
  • How to Register: You can apply for the permit on the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department's website. You need to submit an application, supporting documentation, and permit fee to the Department. Mobile Food Establishment Permit Application

Useful information source links for reference:

  1. Maricopa County Mobile Food Establishments
  2. Maricopa County Permits, Forms, and Applications
  3. Arizona Revised Statutes 11-269.24

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