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Are you thinking of starting your own food truck business in Houston? One of the most important things you need to consider is getting a permit. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about food truck permits in Houston.
What is a Food Truck Permit?
A food truck permit is a legal document that allows you to operate a food truck business in Houston. It is issued by the city’s health department and ensures that your truck meets all the necessary health and safety regulations.
Types of Food Truck Permits
There are several types of food truck permits in Houston, depending on the type of food you offer and where you plan to operate. Here are some of the most common permits:
1. Mobile Food Unit Permit
This permit is required for any food truck that plans to operate on public property, such as streets or parks. It ensures that your truck meets all the necessary health and safety regulations and that you have the proper insurance.
2. Commissary Letter of Agreement
This permit is required for any food truck that does not have a permanent location and needs to use a commissary to store food, water, and other supplies. The commissary must also be licensed and inspected by the health department.
3. Sidewalk Vending Permit
This permit is required for any food truck that plans to operate on sidewalks or other public right-of-way areas. It ensures that your truck meets all the necessary health and safety regulations and that you have the proper insurance.
How to Get a Food Truck Permit in Houston
Getting a food truck permit in Houston can be a complex process, but it is necessary if you want to operate legally. Here are the steps you need to follow:
1. Obtain a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit
Before you can apply for a food truck permit, you need to obtain a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. This permit allows you to collect and remit sales tax on your food sales.
2. Register Your Business
You also need to register your food truck business with the Texas Secretary of State and obtain any necessary business licenses or permits.
3. Apply for a Mobile Food Unit Permit
To apply for a Mobile Food Unit Permit, you need to submit an application to the Houston Health Department, along with a list of all the food items you plan to sell, a floor plan of your truck, and proof of insurance.
4. Obtain a Commissary Letter of Agreement
If you plan to use a commissary to store food and supplies, you also need to obtain a Commissary Letter of Agreement from the health department.
5. Apply for a Sidewalk Vending Permit
If you plan to operate on sidewalks or other public right-of-way areas, you also need to apply for a Sidewalk Vending Permit from the Houston Department of Public Works and Engineering.
Food Truck Permit Fees in Houston
The fees for food truck permits in Houston vary depending on the type of permit you need. Here are the current fees:
1. Mobile Food Unit Permit
The fee for a Mobile Food Unit Permit is $731. This includes the initial inspection fee and the annual permit fee.
2. Commissary Letter of Agreement
The fee for a Commissary Letter of Agreement is $146. This is a one-time fee that covers the cost of the initial inspection.
3. Sidewalk Vending Permit
The fee for a Sidewalk Vending Permit is $100 per year.
Conclusion
Starting a food truck business in Houston can be a great way to share your love of food with others and make a living doing what you love. However, it is important to obtain the proper permits to ensure that your business is legal and safe. Follow the steps outlined in this article to obtain your food truck permit in Houston and start your business on the right foot.