Food Truck Permits: Carrollton vs Dallas
How do food truck permits rules compare between Carrollton, TX and Dallas, TX?
Carrollton and Dallas have similar restriction levels.
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 requires a Mobile Food Establishment permit from Dallas Code Compliance Consumer Health ($380–$675 annually). Per Dallas City Code §17-7, trucks must operate from a Dallas-permitted commissary, may not vend within 100 feet of a brick-and-mortar restaurant entrance, and need property-owner consent for any private-lot location. A Texas Food Manager certificate is mandatory.
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 | - |
| - | - |
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
Where can I park my food truck in Dallas?
On private lots with written owner consent, outside the 100-ft buffer around restaurant entrances. Public right-of-way and parks require separate event/vending permits. Most Dallas trucks operate at commissary lots, breweries, and corporate office events.
How long does a Dallas food truck permit take?
Allow 3–4 weeks: plan review (~2 weeks) plus on-site truck inspection at the Consumer Health office at 7901 Goforth Road. Commissary letters and Food Manager cert should be ready before applying.
How much does a Dallas food truck permit cost?
$380/year (Class A) to $675/year (Class C). Add commissary rent (~$350–$600/month), Texas Sales Tax Permit (free), and Food Manager certification (~$100).
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