What permits do I need for a food truck or cart in Alameda County?
Food trucks, carts and sidewalk stands in Alameda County need a Mobile Food Facility health permit with a plan check from Alameda County Environmental Health. Most mobile operations must work from an approved commissary. You also need a city business license, and usually a CDTFA seller's permit because hot prepared food is taxable.
Key facts
- Health permit
- Mobile Food Facility permit + plan check
- Commissary
- Usually required
- How to submit
- Through the email channels listed on the county application
- Also needed
- City business license; seller's permit if sales are taxable
Step by step
- Line up an approved commissary and get a signed agreement.
- Prepare vehicle or cart plans (drawings or manufacturer spec sheet).
- Submit the county mobile food application and plans.
- Pass the plan check and inspection.
- Get your city business license and seller's permit.
Questions
Do food carts need a commissary in Alameda County?
Most mobile food operations must operate from an approved commissary. Confirm the requirement for your cart type with Alameda County Environmental Health.
Official sources
- Mobile Food Facilities — Alameda County Department of Environmental Health
- Seller's permit registration — California Department of Tax and Fee Administration
Last checked against official sources on . Regulatory OS explains official requirements and prepares applications; it is not a government agency and does not give legal advice. Agencies make all permit decisions.