Food truck resources in Illinois
Illinois regulates mobile food vendors through local health departments, with the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) providing statewide food safety standards under the Illinois Food Code. Chicago operates its own Mobile Food Vendor License program with GPS tracking requirements and proximity restrictions near restaurants. Downstate, county health departments issue mobile food permits independently. An Illinois business tax registration and food handler certifications for all staff are required statewide.
Permits
View allIllinois County & City Food Truck Permit Guide
A market-by-market breakdown of food truck permitting requirements across Illinois's key cities and counties, from Chicago to Springfield, Peoria, Rockford, and Champaign-Urbana.
Illinois
How to Apply for a Food Truck Permit in Illinois
Step-by-step walkthrough of the Illinois food truck permit application process, covering local health department applications, Chicago's dual-license system, and tips for a smooth approval.
Illinois
Illinois Food Truck Permit Requirements
A comprehensive guide to the permits and licenses required to legally operate a food truck in Illinois, from IDPH food safety rules to local health department permits and Chicago's Mobile Food Vendor ordinance.
Illinois
Guides
View allIllinois Commissary Kitchen Requirements
What Illinois food truck operators need to know about commissary kitchen requirements, including Chicago's strict 12-hour return rule and how to find the right commissary for your operation.
Illinois
Illinois Food Truck Insurance Requirements
A guide to the insurance policies required and recommended for food truck operators in Illinois, including auto liability minimums, general liability, workers' compensation, and more.
Illinois
How to Start a Food Truck Business in Illinois
Everything you need to know to launch a food truck in Illinois, from writing your business plan and choosing a market to navigating state regulations and building your brand.
Illinois
Checklists
View allIllinois Food Truck Launch Checklist
A step-by-step checklist for launching your food truck in Illinois, covering every task from business formation through your first day of service.
Illinois
Illinois Food Truck Health Inspection Checklist
A comprehensive checklist of what Illinois health inspectors look for during food truck inspections, based on the IDPH Food Service Sanitation Code and common local health department standards.
Illinois