Cambridge vs Lowell
How do food truck permits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Lowell, MA?
Cambridge and Lowell have similar restriction levels.
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 →Lowell, MA
Middlesex County
Food trucks in Lowell need a city mobile food vendor permit, a Board of Health common victualler license, and a State Food Establishment permit, plus a commissary agreement.
View full Lowell rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Lowell |
|---|---|---|
| License agency | License Commission | - |
| Health code | 105 CMR 590 | - |
| Fire inspection | Required for propane | Propane systems |
| Locations | Designated only | - |
| Gray water | No street dumping | - |
| State code | - | 105 CMR 590 |
| City permit | - | Mobile food vendor |
| Commissary | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Lowell FAQ
How much is a Lowell food truck permit?
Fees vary but typically total several hundred dollars annually across the city, state, and hawker and peddler licenses.
Can I park my food truck on any Lowell street?
No, you need the abutting owners permission on private lots and must follow posted parking rules on public streets.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Lowell compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool