Food Truck Permits: Chino vs San Bernardino
How do food truck permits rules compare between Chino, CA and San Bernardino, CA?
San Bernardino has fewer restrictions than Chino.
Chino, CA
San Bernardino County
California Retail Food Code (Health and Safety Code 113700-114437) sets uniform mobile food facility permit, equipment, and food safety standards enforced by counties statewide.
View full Chino rules →San Bernardino, CA
San Bernardino County
San Bernardino food trucks require a city business license, a San Bernardino County Environmental Health mobile food facility permit, and a commissary kitchen agreement. State SB 946 protects sidewalk vendors separately.
View full San Bernardino rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chino | San Bernardino |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | H&S Code 113700-114437 | - |
| Permit issuer | County health department | - |
| Commissary required | Yes for most MFFs | - |
| SB 972 | Vendor reform 2022 | - |
| City License | - | SB Finance Department |
| Health Permit | - | SB County Environmental Health |
| State Food Code | - | CRFC H and S 113700+ |
| Commissary Required | - | Every 24 hours |
| Sidewalk Vending Law | - | SB 946 (Gov Code 51036) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chino FAQ
Do I need a state license to operate a food truck in California?
You need a Mobile Food Facility permit issued by the county environmental health department where your truck is based. The state Retail Food Code sets the standards counties enforce.
Can different California cities have different food truck rules?
Cities can regulate where and when food trucks operate, but food safety, equipment, and permit standards are uniform statewide under the California Retail Food Code.
San Bernardino FAQ
How long does it take to get a food truck permit in San Bernardino?
Budget 4 to 8 weeks for all approvals. Environmental Health plan check and inspection take 2 to 4 weeks, the city business license takes 1 to 2 weeks, and you need a signed commissary agreement in place before inspection.
Can San Bernardino ban food trucks in certain areas?
Vehicle-based food trucks can be regulated through zoning and time limits. Sidewalk push-cart vendors are protected by SB 946 and cannot be banned outright, though reasonable health, safety, and location regulations are allowed.
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