To open a food truck in Nebraska, you need to obtain several licenses and permits. These include a permit from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Consumer Protection (FSCP) focus area, a valid permit outlining the types of operations within your establishment, a Food Establishment Permit from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, a Mobile Food Preparation Vehicle Operational Permit, a Food Truck Program Permit with the City Clerk’s Office, and a Temporary Food Establishment Permit from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department - Food Safety Program.
1. Permit from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Consumer Protection (FSCP) focus area
- Purpose: This permit is necessary unless you plan to operate at only one event per year for no more than two days. It ensures that you comply with the Nebraska Food Code.
- How to Register: You can request an inspection by calling FSCP staff at 402-471-3422 or by contacting the area sanitarian.
2. Valid Permit Outlining the Types of Operations within Your Establishment
- Purpose: This permit is obtained through the food inspector in your area who will conduct an initial inspection of your facility prior to licensing.
- Estimated Cost: Initial permit fee and an initial inspection fee. If your food truck has been in operation prior to applying for a permit, you will need to pay an additional fee of $60.
- How to Register: You can find the inspector in your area using this area map.
3. Food Establishment Permit from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
- Purpose: This permit is required to operate a food truck in Lincoln, Nebraska.
- How to Register: You can schedule an inspection at 402-441-6280.
4. Mobile Food Preparation Vehicle Operational Permit
- Purpose: This permit is required if your food truck is equipped with appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapor.
- How to Register: You can register for an inspection with Building and Safety – Fire Prevention.
5. Food Truck Program Permit with the City Clerk’s Office
- Purpose: This permit is required to operate a food truck in Lincoln, Nebraska.
- How to Register: Apply for a permit with the City Clerk’s Office.
6. Temporary Food Establishment Permit from the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department - Food Safety Program
- Purpose: This permit is required to operate a food truck in Lincoln-Lancaster County.
- Estimated Cost: Varies depending on the type and whether you're a non-profit organization or not.
- How to Register: The application must be received 30 days prior to the event.
For more information, you can refer to the following sources:
- Nebraska Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Consumer Protection
- Food Establishment Inspection Fee FAQs
- City of Lincoln Food Truck Program
- Nebraska Lawmakers Pass Legislation to Update Food Truck Permitting Process
- Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department - Food Safety Program
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