Food Truck Permits: Garfield vs Hackensack
How do food truck permits rules compare between Garfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Garfield has fewer restrictions than Hackensack.
Garfield, NJ
Bergen County
Garfield issues mobile food vendor licenses through the Health Department, capping active licenses at five per twelve-month period and giving preference to Garfield residents.
View full Garfield rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Food trucks in Bergen County need a state retail food license, mobile vendor approval from the Bergen County or municipal health department, and individual peddler permits in each town where they operate. There is no countywide unified permit.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Garfield | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| License Cap | Five active per year | - |
| Resident Preference | Garfield applicants prioritized | - |
| Background | Fingerprinting required | - |
| Expiration | December 31 annually | - |
| Fixed Truck Fee | $300 per year | - |
| State license | - | NJ Retail Food Establishment |
| Health authority | - | County or municipal |
| Per-town permit | - | Required separately |
| Commissary | - | Required statewide |
| Governing code | - | N.J.A.C. 8:24 Chapter XXIV |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Garfield FAQ
Who issues Garfield mobile food vendor licenses?
The Garfield Department of Health issues mobile food vendor licenses, while the City Clerk handles fixed-location food truck licensing and fee collection.
Can a non-resident operate a food truck in Garfield?
Yes, non-residents may apply, but the ordinance gives preference to Garfield residents when issuing the limited five active licenses available each year.
Hackensack FAQ
Is there one Bergen County food truck permit?
No. Each Bergen County municipality issues its own peddler license. You also need a state retail food license and inspection by the local health department, which may be county or municipal.
Do I need a commissary for my food truck in Bergen County?
Yes. New Jersey requires mobile food units to operate from a licensed commissary for water, waste disposal, food storage, and cleaning. Home kitchens generally do not qualify.
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