Carrollton vs Dallas
How do food truck permits rules compare between Carrollton, TX and Dallas, TX?
Carrollton has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
Carrollton, TX
Dallas County
Carrollton requires food trucks to obtain a mobile food vendor permit and health department approval. Annual licensing and vehicle inspections are typically required.
View full Carrollton rules →Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas City Code Chapter 17, Article VIII regulates mobile food units (MFUs). As of September 2023, Texas HB 2878 changed permitting so that MFU operators in Dallas County need only a single permit from Dallas County Health and Human Services rather than permits from each individual city. The 2022 amendments to Chapter 17 updated classifications and allowed Class III and IV MFUs to prepare raw poultry and seafood on the unit. All MFUs must be constructed in accordance with Chapter 17 and maintain valid permits.
View full Dallas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carrollton | Dallas |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Mobile vendor permit required | - |
| Health Permit | County/state health approval | - |
| Insurance | Liability coverage required | - |
| Commissary | Agreement required | - |
| Code Section | - | Ch. 17, Art. VIII (Mobile Food Units) |
| HB 2878 (2023) | - | County-level permit replaces city-by-city |
| Permit Authority | - | Dallas County DCHHS Environmental Health |
| 2022 Amendments | - | Updated classifications, expanded prep allowances |
| Compliance | - | Must meet Ch. 17 construction standards |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carrollton FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit?
Apply through Carrollton business licensing and the county health department. Expect vehicle inspection and commissary agreement.
Do I need a commissary?
Yes. Most jurisdictions require a licensed commissary for food prep, storage, and wastewater disposal.
Dallas FAQ
Do I need a Dallas city permit for a food truck?
Since HB 2878 (effective September 2023), MFU operators need a single permit from Dallas County Health and Human Services rather than separate permits from each city within the county.
What food can I prepare on a food truck in Dallas?
Under the 2022 amendments to Chapter 17, Class III and IV mobile food units may prepare raw poultry and seafood on the unit. All operations must comply with Chapter 17 construction and sanitation standards.
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