Food Truck Permits: Altadena vs Long Beach
How do food truck permits rules compare between Altadena, CA and Long Beach, CA?
Altadena and Long Beach have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Mobile food facilities operating in Altadena need a LA County Department of Public Health Mobile Food Facility permit, a LA County business license under Title 7, and must operate from approved commissaries.
View full Altadena rules →Long Beach, CA
Los Angeles County
Food trucks in Long Beach need a city business license and LA County Health Permit per LBMC Ch. 5.37. The city's sidewalk vending ordinance (LBMC Ch. 5.73, effective Feb 2024) regulates roaming vendors in residential areas from 8 AM to 8 PM or sunset.
View full Long Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Long Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Type | Mobile Food Facility (DPH) | - |
| State Law | Cal. Retail Food Code (HSC 113700+) | - |
| Commissary | Required daily check-in | - |
| School Distance | 500 ft restriction | - |
| Business License | - | Required |
| Health Permit | - | LA County required |
| Code | - | LBMC Ch. 5.37, Ch. 5.73 |
| Residential Hours | - | 8 AM - 8 PM or sunset |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Do I need a permit to run a food truck in Altadena?
Yes — a Mobile Food Facility permit from LA County Public Health plus a business license under Title 7. Daily commissary required.
Long Beach FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit?
Apply through Long Beach business licensing and the county health department. Expect vehicle inspection and commissary agreement.
Do I need a commissary?
Yes. Most jurisdictions require a licensed commissary for food prep, storage, and wastewater disposal.
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