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

To open a food truck in Montana, you need to obtain a valid license issued by the Montana Department of Health & Human Services, complete the Mobile Food Establishments (MFE) Plan Review Application, and depending on your location, you may also need to apply for a Temporary Food Service Permit. These licenses and permits ensure that your food truck complies with all state and federal regulations, and they must be posted in your establishment.

1. Retail Food Establishment License

• Purpose: This license is required for all retail food establishments serving food to the public in Montana. It ensures compliance with the requirements of the subchapter.
• How to Register: Make a written application on forms provided by the Montana Department of Health & Human Services. The department will inspect the proposed retail food establishment before issuing the license.

2. Mobile Food Establishments (MFE) Plan Review Application

• Purpose: This application is necessary for obtaining the necessary licenses and permits to open a food truck in Montana. It includes your proposed menu, floor plans, and equipment specification sheets.
• How to Register: Obtain and complete the application, then submit it along with the plan review fee and all required documents to the City-County Health Department (CCHD). Applications must be submitted at least 30 days prior to construction and/or anticipated opening date.

3. Temporary Food Service Permit (only for Lincoln County)

• Purpose: This permit authorizes the food truck to operate at specified temporary events in Lincoln County. The food truck must prepare and serve only the food(s) listed on the approved menu and must follow requirements as specified by the local health authority.
• Estimated Cost: Base License Fee of $20.00 (annual fee) and an Event Registration Fee of $10.00 (paid for each event at which the operation sets up).
• How to Register: Apply for this permit at the Lincoln County Department of Environmental Health (LCDEH). If the plan review has already been approved, any changes to the operation must be approved by LCDEH and may require a new plan review application.

Useful Information Source Links:

• Montana Department of Health & Human Services: Retail Food Establishment License
• City-County Health Department (CCHD): Mobile Food Establishments (MFE) Plan Review Application
• Lincoln County Department of Environmental Health (LCDEH): Temporary Food Service Permit

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• Food Delivery Trends And Restaurant Insights