To open a food truck in Michigan, you need to apply for several licenses and permits. These include a Food Service License, a Mobile Food Establishment license, a Mobile Food Establishment Commissary license, a Temporary Food Establishment license, and a Special Transitory Food Unit (STFU) license. The type of license required depends on the nature of your food truck operations.
1. Food Service License
- Purpose: This license is required to operate a food service establishment from a vehicle, trailer, or watercraft.
- Estimated Cost: Contact your local health department for the fee.
- How to Register: Apply through the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development website.
2. Mobile Food Establishment License
- Purpose: This license is for operations that sell food from a vehicle and return to a commissary for servicing at least every 24 hours.
- Estimated Cost: $192
- How to Register: Apply through your local health department.
3. Mobile Food Establishment Commissary License
- Purpose: This license is required if your food truck operates as a commissary.
- Estimated Cost: $192
- How to Register: Apply through your local health department.
4. Temporary Food Establishment License
- Purpose: This license is required if you plan to operate at a fixed location for a temporary period not exceeding 14 consecutive days.
- Estimated Cost: $73
- How to Register: Apply through your local health department.
5. Special Transitory Food Unit (STFU) License
- Purpose: This license is required if you plan to operate throughout the state without the 14-day limit.
- Estimated Cost: $159
- How to Register: Apply through your local health department.
Please note that all licensing fees are non-refundable, per statutory requirement. For more detailed information, you can refer to the following sources:
- Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development
- Food Service License Application
- License Type Guide with Associated Fees
- Marquette County Health Department
- Detroit Health Department
Learn more about local food delivery trends and insights:
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