Food truck resources in California
California has some of the most detailed mobile food facility regulations in the country, administered by county environmental health departments under the California Retail Food Code (CalCode). Food trucks are classified as either Type 1 (prepackaged food only) or Type 2 (food preparation on board), each with distinct permit requirements. AB 1678 and AB 626 have modernized the state's approach, but operators must still secure a county health permit, a California seller's permit, and a business license. Most counties require an approved commissary for daily servicing, and fire safety inspections are standard.
Permits
View allCalifornia County and City Permit Guide
A detailed breakdown of county and city permit requirements across California's major food truck markets, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Diego, and Orange County.
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How to Apply for a Food Truck Permit in California
Step-by-step walkthrough of the California food truck permit application process, from choosing your MFF type to passing your county health inspection.
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California Food Truck Permit Requirements
A comprehensive guide to every permit and license required to legally operate a mobile food facility in California, from county health permits to CDTFA seller's permits.
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Guides
View allCalifornia Commissary Kitchen Requirements
What California requires for commissary kitchens, how to find an approved facility, and why the daily commissary return is strictly enforced for Type 2 MFFs.
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California Food Truck Insurance Requirements
What insurance do you need to operate a food truck in California? This guide covers general liability, commercial auto, workers' compensation, and California-specific mandates.
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How to Start a Food Truck Business in California
Everything you need to know to start a food truck in California — from writing a business plan to navigating the nation's most complex mobile food facility regulations.
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Checklists
View allCalifornia Food Truck Launch Checklist
The complete pre-launch checklist for starting your California food truck — every permit, every task, nothing missed in the nation's most complex food truck market.
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California Health Inspection Checklist for Food Trucks
Know exactly what county health inspectors look for during a California MFF inspection. Use this checklist to prepare and stay compliant with CalCode.
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