Food Truck Permits: Arlington vs Cambridge
How do food truck permits rules compare between Arlington, MA and Cambridge, MA?
Arlington and Cambridge have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
Mobile food establishments must comply with the MA Food Code (105 CMR 590) statewide. Local boards of health issue permits, while state law sets minimum sanitary standards.
View full Arlington rules →Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge licenses mobile food vendors through the License Commission and Board of Health, with permits for truck operation, food safety, and designated location use.
View full Cambridge rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Code | 105 CMR 590 | - |
| Statute | M.G.L. c. 94 §305A | - |
| Local Permit | Each municipality | - |
| Certification | ServSafe required | - |
| License agency | - | License Commission |
| Health code | - | 105 CMR 590 |
| Fire inspection | - | Required for propane |
| Locations | - | Designated only |
| Gray water | - | No street dumping |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Can I operate a food truck in multiple Massachusetts cities with one permit?
No. While state sanitary standards are uniform under 105 CMR 590, each city or town's board of health issues separate permits to operate within its jurisdiction.
What sanitary standards apply to Massachusetts food trucks?
105 CMR 590 (the State Food Code) requires approved water, refrigeration, waste handling, certified food protection managers, and regular inspections, applying uniformly statewide.
Cambridge FAQ
How do I start a food truck in Cambridge?
Apply to the License Commission, pass Board of Health and Fire inspections, obtain insurance, and secure approved locations.
Can I park anywhere to vend?
No, mobile vending is limited to designated locations approved by the License Commission.
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