To open a food truck in Dallas, TX, you need to obtain several licenses and permits. These include a Registered Food Service Manager Certificate, a Mobile Food Preparation Vehicle (MFPV) Permit, a Central Business District Concession License, a Dallas Food Handler Registration, a Low Propane Gas Permit, and a Mobile Food Truck Concession Permit. Additionally, you may need to apply for a food variance if you're selling non-fast food cooked items or preparing raw chicken or seafood. Learn more about Food Variance at the Dallas City Hall website.
1. Registered Food Service Manager Certificate
Purpose: This certificate is required to ensure that the food service manager is knowledgeable about food safety practices.
How to Register: Attend an approved Registered Food Manager class.
2. Mobile Food Preparation Vehicle (MFPV) Permit
Purpose: This permit is required to ensure that the food truck meets specific design, equipment, and plumbing requirements, and passes a health inspection.
Estimated Cost: $315 Permit Application Fee plus $150 Inspection Fee.
How to Register: Obtain the necessary forms and applications on the Dallas City Hall website.
3. Central Business District Concession License
Purpose: This license is required if you plan to vend in the Downtown Arts District.
Estimated Cost: $150 License fee.
How to Register: Apply through the Dallas City Hall website.
4. Dallas Food Handler Registration
Purpose: This registration is required for all staff members to ensure they are knowledgeable about food safety practices.
How to Register: Apply through the Dallas City Hall.
5. Low Propane Gas Permit
Purpose: This permit is required if you're using propane in your food truck.
How to Register: Apply through the Dallas Fire Department.
6. Mobile Food Truck Concession Permit
Purpose: This permit authorizes the entry to City of Dallas parks to conduct food concessions.
Estimated Cost: $1,000 for nine (9) months.
How to Register: Issued by the City of Dallas Park and Recreation Department – Athletics, Events & Reservations Office.
7. Food Variance
Purpose: This is required if you're selling non-fast food cooked items or preparing raw chicken or seafood.
Estimated Cost: $100 non-refundable fee, a $100 registration fee, a $250 plan review fee.
How to Register: Apply through the Dallas City Hall.
More Resources
For more information, you can refer to the following sources:
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