Cambridge vs Waltham
How do food truck permits rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Waltham, MA?
Cambridge and Waltham 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 →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham food truck operators need a mobile food vendor permit from the Health Department, a hawker license, and commissary kitchen agreement before operating.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| License agency | License Commission | - |
| Health code | 105 CMR 590 | - |
| Fire inspection | Required for propane | - |
| Locations | Designated only | - |
| Gray water | No street dumping | - |
| Health Permit | - | Mobile food vendor permit |
| State Code | - | 105 CMR 590 |
| State License | - | Hawkers and peddlers |
| Commissary | - | Required, no home prep |
| Fire Inspection | - | Propane and suppression |
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.
Waltham FAQ
Can I operate a food truck on Waltham streets?
Street vending is limited. Most operators work on private property with landlord permission, at approved public events, or in designated vending zones.
What permits do I need to start a Waltham food truck?
Health Department mobile food vendor permit, state hawkers license, commissary agreement, ServSafe certification, and Fire Department inspection of cooking equipment.
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