If you're looking to operate a food truck in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, you'll need to make sure you have all the necessary permits and licenses in order. This includes a business license, a non-permanent food retail license, and a motor vehicle seller's license. Additionally, you'll need to contact the health department to find out the cost of food truck licenses. An activity license is also required for all businesses and nonprofit organizations operating in Philadelphia, even if they are outside the city limits.
If you're looking for food preparation space for mobile events or for events, you must prepare it in a certified commercial kitchen space. If you're interested in being part of an existing market, Farm to City and Food Trust are good resources in Philadelphia, organizing many of the city's farmers' markets. The permanent or permanent food business designation includes an open restaurant, grocery store, bar, or food franchise. If you want to process food in your home kitchen, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Many states, including Pennsylvania, have enacted “home-cooked food” laws that allow people to prepare certain food products in their home kitchens and sell them locally on a small scale.
To be able to sell processed foods in your home kitchen, you must submit an application for a home food processor to the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Under the new Zoning Code, community gardening and commercial agriculture are allowed in most parts of the city, but you still need to purchase a “registration of use” permit from the City if your garden or farm is for a new use or a change in the use of a plot. If you sell eggs, baked goods, or anything made with vegetables or fruits, contact the Food Protection Office for more information. Street food units include trucks, trailers, carts, stalls, and street vendors. Street vendors must complete the plan review request required for a traveling food business. The non-stationary food company designation includes a mobile food truck or food stand, or any mobile structure.
If you want to run a traveling food retail business, you need a food establishment license for food establishments and non-permanent premises. Obtaining all the necessary permits and licenses can be daunting but it is essential for running a successful food truck business in Philadelphia. Make sure to do your research and contact the relevant authorities to ensure that your business is compliant with all regulations.
