One of the most common questions we’re asked is whether or not food trucks are allowed to cater on private property without permits. Different types of permits are offered by the local township, county, or similar – but not in the case of private events.
So, is it necessary to pull permits for your private event? The answer is no.
Food trucks do not need permits to cater private affairs on private property, and in many cases, the same goes for private events on public property – but not always! Government owned properties are a different story. For example, food trucks absolutely need permits to cater public events being held on public property, especially if the food truck plans to serve anyone else aside from the event guests/attendees.
What do I need to obtain in order to have a food truck set up at my house? We always recommend getting permission from the property owner, of course. However, there may be some special requirements for larger events, depending on the city or county where the event is taking place. For example, if there’s a large event (thousands of guests) being held on land/property which is privately owned, but rented to the event host/event production, it’s a safe bet to assume that some or all permits will be needed.
In addition, if the event is open to the public or if the food truck is located on public property, such as a city park or street, the food truck may need to obtain permits and licenses from local authorities. This may include a health permit, a business license, and/or a fire permit.
It’s important to work closely with the food truck caterers (that’s us!) to ensure that all necessary permits and licenses are obtained before public events held on public property take place.