Food Truck Permits: Fort Collins vs Loveland
How do food truck permits rules compare between Fort Collins, CO and Loveland, CO?
Fort Collins and Loveland have similar restriction levels.
Fort Collins, CO
Larimer County
Fort Collins requires food trucks to obtain a mobile food vendor permit and health department approval. Annual licensing and vehicle inspections are typically required.
View full Fort Collins rules →Loveland, CO
Larimer County
All mobile food vendors (food trucks, carts) operating within the City of Loveland must obtain an annual mobile vendor license from the Loveland City Clerk's office, a Loveland sales-and-use tax license, a Loveland Fire Rescue Authority (LFRA) inspection/permit ($75 annual fee), and a Larimer County / CDPHE Retail Food Establishment license. Vendors must apply at least 10 days before any event.
View full Loveland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Collins | Loveland |
|---|---|---|
| City Permit | Mobile vendor permit required | - |
| Health Permit | County/state health approval | - |
| Insurance | Liability coverage required | - |
| Commissary | Agreement required | - |
| City License | - | Loveland mobile vendor license (annual, City Clerk) |
| Apply Lead Time | - | At least 10 days before any event |
| Sales Tax License | - | Required (home-rule city) |
| LFRA Fire Permit | - | Required for any fuel source; $75 annual |
| Fire Permit Expires | - | December 31 (calendar year) |
| Fire Extinguisher | - | Class ABC required; Class K for grease cooking |
| Grease Cooking | - | Type I hood with automatic suppression |
| Reciprocity | - | 16 Larimer/Weld County fire departments |
| City Clerk | - | 970-962-2392, clerk@cityofloveland.org |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Collins FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit?
Apply through Fort Collins 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.
Loveland FAQ
What permits do I need to run a food truck in Loveland?
You need (1) an annual Loveland mobile vendor license from the City Clerk's office, (2) a Loveland sales and use tax license (home-rule city), (3) a Loveland Fire Rescue Authority inspection and permit ($75 annual, good through December 31), and (4) a Larimer County / CDPHE Retail Food Establishment license for food safety. Apply at least 10 days before any event.
How much is the Loveland Fire Rescue mobile vendor permit?
$75.00 annually. The LFRA permit is good for the calendar year (expires December 31) and is required for any mobile vendor using a fuel source such as a generator or LPG propane container. LFRA participates in a reciprocity program with 16 fire departments in Larimer and Weld Counties.
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