To open a food truck in Austin, TX, you need to obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit, which comes in two types: Restricted and Unrestricted. The type of permit required depends on the type of food you're selling. You also need to have a Central Preparation Facility (CPF), ensure all employees complete a state-approved food handler training course, and at least one employee per mobile unit passes the food manager exam. The permit application process involves three steps, including an application review, submission of necessary documents, and a physical inspection of the mobile unit.
1. Mobile Food Vendor Permit
Purpose: This permit is required for any business selling food or beverages from a mobile unit. The type of permit, either unrestricted or restricted, depends on your food-handling method. Unrestricted permits are for vendors handling open food or drinks, while restricted permits are for vendors handling only pre-wrapped food or drinks.
Estimated Cost: The permit fees are $239 for Unrestricted and $212 for Restricted, plus an application fee of $158. If applicable, a fire inspection fee of $266 is also required.
How to Register: You need to apply for a Permit to Operate a Mobile Food Unit at 1520 Rutherford Lane, Building 1, Suite 205, with all necessary application materials. Once the application intake is finished and payment has been submitted, you will be provided with an appointment card indicating a future designated time slot for bringing in the mobile vending unit for inspection.
2. Central Preparation Facility (CPF)
Purpose: All mobile food vendors must have a CPF, a fixed food business that provides services to the mobile food unit. The CPF operator must maintain a current & valid Fixed Food Enterprise (FFE) permit and provide adequate/approved waste disposal facilities, a sanitary area for distributing potable water to mobile units, and sanitary adequate food storage facilities.
Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the services provided by the CPF.
How to Register: You need to contract with a CPF and provide a notarized CPF agreement during the permit application process.
3. Food Handler Training Course and Food Manager Exam
Purpose: All employees must complete a state-approved food handler training course and at least one employee per mobile unit must pass the food manager exam to ensure food safety.
Estimated Cost: The cost varies depending on the training provider.
How to Register: You need to enroll your employees in a state-approved food handler training course and have at least one employee take the food manager exam.
More Resources
For more details, refer to the Mobile Food Vendor Permit Guide and the Austin government website.
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