Food Truck Permits: Boston vs Chelsea
How do food truck permits rules compare between Boston, MA and Chelsea, MA?
Chelsea has fewer restrictions than Boston.
Boston, MA
Suffolk County
Food trucks in Boston require a Mobile Food Vendor License from the city's Licensing Board and a permit from the Inspectional Services Department. Operators must pass a health inspection, obtain a fire safety inspection, and have commissary agreements. Boston limits the total number of mobile food vendor licenses.
View full Boston rules →Chelsea, MA
Suffolk County
Food trucks in Suffolk County require city-issued permits — Boston's Mobile Food Truck Program through the Office of Economic Opportunity, plus Boston Public Health Commission health permit, commissary agreement, and ABCC compliance.
View full Chelsea rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Boston | Chelsea |
|---|---|---|
| License | Mobile Food Vendor License required | - |
| Commissary | Agreement with commercial kitchen required | Required (105 CMR 590.010) |
| Health Inspection | ISD inspection of vehicle | - |
| Location | Must operate at approved spots | - |
| Restaurant Buffer | 50-100 feet from restaurants | - |
| Boston Authority | - | OEOI + ISD + BPHC |
| Health Code | - | 105 CMR 590 + MGL c. 94 §305B |
| Insurance | - | $1M+ liability |
| Renewal | - | Annual with inspection |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Boston FAQ
How do I get a food truck license in Boston?
Apply to the Boston Licensing Board for a Mobile Food Vendor License. You need a commissary agreement, ISD health inspection, fire safety inspection, food handler certification, and liability insurance. Boston limits the number of licenses issued.
Where can food trucks park in Boston?
Food trucks must operate at city-approved locations only. The city designates food truck zones in areas like the Rose Kennedy Greenway and City Hall Plaza. Operating at unauthorized locations carries a $200 fine.
Chelsea FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit in Boston?
Apply through Boston's Mobile Food Truck Program (boston.gov/food-trucks). Requires BPHC food permit, commissary agreement, vehicle inspection, ServSafe certification, and $1M insurance. Annual lottery assigns Public Space locations.
Can my food truck operate without a commissary?
No. 105 CMR 590.010 requires all mobile food units in Massachusetts to have a commissary agreement with an approved fixed food establishment for prep, storage, and waste disposal. No commissary means no permit.
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