Food Truck Builders Handling Paperwork with the Health Department

Food Truck Builders Handling Paperwork with the Health Department

Any food truck business requires lots of licenses and permits to operate. While getting licenses for your business and vehicle may sound pretty straightforward, handling paperwork with the health department can turn into a nightmare. In fact, it’s one of the reasons why most newbies quit. But it doesn’t have to be that way for you. Understanding the ins and outs of handling paperwork with the health department can help you succeed where others fail.

If you’ve decided to pursue a food truck business, here’s everything you need to know about the health department requirements.

Food Safety

One thing that reigns supreme in this industry is food safety. Before you open your food truck business, you have to comply with all the local food safety regulations. Because each area is unique – has its own food safety requirements – you’ll need to make sure that you contact your local health department to understand everything.

Health Department Permits

Whether yours is a restaurant chain, corporation, or a family venture, the health department will have to conduct an inspection of your food truck, review, and approve it. Mainly, this inspection will be done to verify that the food you create, maintain, or distribute is fit for human consumption. Failure to acquire this permit can spell trouble for your business, both in the short- and long-term.

Food Handler’s Permit

Of course, you’ll need to hire a few people to work at your food truck, either full-time or part-time. Depending on where you intend to operate your business, your local authority may require some or all of your employees to get a food handler’s permit.

Most of the time, the issuance of this permit is done upon the successful completion of a food safety class. Therefore, ensure that at least one of your employees has a valid food handler’s permit on the truck, especially during the business hours.

Takeaway

Before you pump money into your food truck startup, one thing that you have to keep in mind is that the health department requirements often differ for each city, county, and state. For instance, some states will require you to renew your licenses and permits annually, while others will require you to do it biannually.

Also, remember that laws and regulations of any city, county or state are subject to change. For that reason, consider joining a local food truck or restaurant association. This, in turn, will help you stay updated every time there are changes in health regulations and how they will affect you.

Need Help? Get an All-In-One-Solution

There’s no denying that venturing into the food truck business is a serious investment. But, the thought of dealing with the super-strict health officials and the ever-changing health department regulations can make you quit before you even start rolling. Luckily, Legion Food Truck is ready to help you achieve your dreams.

We do not only give you the best bang for the buck with the Mercedes of food trucks but also help you with virtually every aspect of the business – from start to finish. Be it a business permit, vehicle license, or health department permit, count on us to do the hard work, so you don’t have to. Give us a call today to learn more about our services.