Food Truck Permits: Dallas vs Irving
How do food truck permits rules compare between Dallas, TX and Irving, TX?
Dallas and Irving have similar restriction levels.
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 →Irving, TX
Dallas County
Irving requires mobile food vendors to obtain a Mobile Food Vendor Permit under Chapter 8 (Business and Tax Code) of the city code. Vendors must also obtain a Dallas County Health Department food service permit. Food trucks must meet health, safety, and fire code requirements. Annual inspections are required, and operators must maintain proper food handler certifications.
View full Irving rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Irving |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| City Permit | - | Mobile Food Vendor Permit required |
| Health Permit | - | Dallas County Health Dept. permit |
| Code Section | - | Irving Code Ch. 8 — Business and Tax Code |
| Inspections | - | Annual health and fire inspections |
| Food Handler | - | Valid food handler certification required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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).
Irving FAQ
What permits do I need for a food truck in Irving?
You need an Irving Mobile Food Vendor Permit and a Dallas County Health Department food service permit. Your truck must pass health and fire inspections, and all food handlers need valid certifications.
How much does an Irving food truck permit cost?
Contact Irving's Business License Department for current fee schedules. Costs include the city permit fee plus Dallas County health permit fees. Renewal is typically annual.
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