To open a food truck in Florida, you need to obtain a Mobile Food Permit from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), comply with Chapter 500, Florida Statutes (F.S.), Chapter 5K-4, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), and the 2017 FDA Food Code. You must also have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) and a current agreement with a Commissary. If you plan to process or prepare food at a commissary, you need an additional food permit. Lastly, you need to apply for a Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle (MFDV) Plan Review.
1. Mobile Food Permit
- Purpose: This permit is required to operate a food truck in Florida. It ensures compliance with state and federal regulations to minimize the risk of foodborne illness.
- Estimated Cost: The cost is determined at the time of inspection.
- How to Register: Apply online at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website. Documentation will be reviewed by a field inspector who will schedule an onsite inspection within two weeks.
2. Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)
- Purpose: A CFPM is responsible for all aspects of food operations in the food truck. This ensures that food safety practices are followed.
- How to Register: Not specified in the provided content.
3. Commissary Agreement
- Purpose: A commissary is a support service location that meets all applicable requirements. The food truck must have a current agreement with a commissary.
- How to Register: Complete a Commissary Letter of Agreement. This agreement is to be submitted at your initial opening inspection.
4. Additional Food Permit
- Purpose: If you plan to process or prepare food at a commissary, you need an additional food permit.
- Estimated Cost: Not specified.
- How to Register: Apply for this no more than 14 days prior to your anticipated opening date. You can apply online at the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website..
5. Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle (MFDV) Plan Review
- Purpose: This process is required when the establishment is newly built, converted from another use, remodeled, or re-opened after being closed for at least 1 year.
- Estimated Cost: Not specified.
- How to Register: Apply using online services or using a printable application.
For more information, you can visit the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services website and the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation website.
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