Food Truck Permits: Charlotte vs Matthews
How do food truck permits rules compare between Charlotte, NC and Matthews, NC?
Charlotte and Matthews have similar restriction levels.
Charlotte, NC
Mecklenburg County
Charlotte requires mobile food vendors to obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the city, in addition to a Mecklenburg County Health Department food service permit. Charlotte Code Chapter 9 governs mobile food vendor operations. Vendors must comply with location restrictions, operating hours, and health and safety standards. Annual permits must be renewed.
View full Charlotte rules →Matthews, NC
Mecklenburg County
Matthews permits mobile food vendors under UDO Section 5.3 with zoning permits, Mecklenburg County Health Department permits, and NC privilege license. Operations restricted to commercial and industrial zones; no overnight parking.
View full Matthews rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Charlotte | Matthews |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Mobile Food Vendor Permit required | - |
| Health Permit | Mecklenburg County Health Department | - |
| Code Reference | Charlotte Code Chapter 9 | - |
| Fire Inspection | Required for propane/cooking equipment | - |
| Renewal | Annual permit renewal | - |
| Zoning permit | - | Matthews Planning, 50-100 dollars |
| Health permit | - | Mecklenburg County, ~200 dollars |
| Zones | - | B-1, B-2, I-1 only |
| Max stay | - | 4 hours per location |
| Overnight | - | Prohibited on site |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Charlotte FAQ
What permits do I need for a food truck in Charlotte?
You need a Charlotte Mobile Food Vendor Permit and a Mecklenburg County Health Department food service permit. A fire inspection is also required for vehicles with propane or cooking equipment.
Where can food trucks operate in Charlotte?
Food trucks must comply with Charlotte's location restrictions including minimum distances from brick-and-mortar restaurants and specific zones. Operating on private property requires landowner permission.
Matthews FAQ
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
Who enforces this in Matthews?
Matthews at (704) 847-4411 handles most complaints.
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