Food Truck Permits: Carlsbad vs Fallbrook
How do food truck permits rules compare between Carlsbad, CA and Fallbrook, CA?
Carlsbad and Fallbrook have similar restriction levels.
Carlsbad, CA
San Diego County
Vending equipment permit required per CMC Chapter 8.28. Annual permit for each vehicle/conveyance. SD County DEH mobile food facility permit also required. Insurance required.
View full Carlsbad rules →Fallbrook, CA
San Diego County
Mobile food facilities in unincorporated San Diego County must obtain a Public Health Permit from the County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ) under County Code Title 6, Division 1. All facilities must operate from an approved commissary.
View full Fallbrook rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carlsbad | Fallbrook |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Annual vending equipment | - |
| County | DEH mobile food permit | - |
| Insurance | Required (liability + auto + WC) | - |
| Time Limit | 60 min per spot | - |
| Finance | 442-339-2495 | - |
| Permit Required | - | County DEHQ Public Health Permit |
| Commissary | - | Required for all mobile food facilities |
| Code | - | County Code Title 6, Division 1 |
| Food Handlers | - | CA Food Handler Cards required |
| Authority | - | County DEHQ |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carlsbad FAQ
Permits needed?
City vending equipment permit + SD County DEH + business license.
How long in one spot?
60 minutes maximum.
Insurance?
Required: commercial liability, auto, workers comp.
Fallbrook FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit in unincorporated San Diego County?
Apply for a Public Health Permit from the County Department of Environmental Health and Quality. You'll need a commissary agreement, menu, equipment list, and vehicle specifications.
Do I need a commissary?
Yes. All mobile food facilities must operate from an approved commissary or permanent food facility for cleaning, servicing, and storage. You cannot operate independently.
What training do food handlers need?
All food handlers must have a valid California Food Handler Card, obtained by passing an approved food safety course. Some operations may also need a Certified Food Protection Manager.
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