Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
🍔 Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors/Food Truck Permits

El Monte vs Los Angeles

How do food truck permits rules compare between El Monte, CA and Los Angeles, CA?

El Monte and Los Angeles have similar restriction levels.

El Monte, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Food trucks in El Monte need a Business Occupancy Permit, LA County Health Department MFF permit, and fire safety compliance. A commissary agreement with a licensed facility is required per county regulations.

View full El Monte rules →

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Food trucks in LA are regulated under LAMC 80.73 (Catering Trucks). Operators need a city business license, LA County Dept of Public Health food facility permit, and vehicle plan check approval. Trucks must dispense food from the sidewalk side only and provide a litter receptacle. Distance restrictions include 500 feet from schools and 100 feet from intersections.

View full Los Angeles rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactEl MonteLos Angeles
City PermitBOP required-
Health PermitLA County MFF permitLA County DPH required
Fire SafetySuppression system required-
CommissaryLicensed agreement needed-
Code Section-LAMC 80.73
School Buffer-500 ft from any school
Intersection Buffer-100 ft minimum
Service Side-Sidewalk side only

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

El Monte FAQ

How do I get a food truck permit?

Apply through El Monte 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.

Los Angeles FAQ

How do I get a food truck permit?

Apply through Los Angeles 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.

Compare other topics

See how El Monte and Los Angeles compare on other ordinance categories.

Want to add a third city?

Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.

Open Comparison Tool