Houston vs Pasadena
How do food truck permits rules compare between Houston, TX and Pasadena, TX?
Houston and Pasadena have similar restriction levels.
Houston, TX
Harris County
Houston requires food trucks to obtain a Mobile Food Unit Medallion from the Houston Health Department under Chapter 20. The permit fee is $258 plus $33.56 admin and $112.57 inspection fees. All mobile food units must operate from an approved Central Preparation Facility.
View full Houston rules →Pasadena, TX
Harris County
Food truck operators in Pasadena need a Harris County Public Health Mobile Food Unit permit and applicable city business permits. Annual HCPH inspections verify food safety compliance. Operators must have a commissary agreement and food handler certifications.
View full Pasadena rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Houston | Pasadena |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Type | Mobile Food Unit Medallion | - |
| Code Section | Houston Code Ch. 20, Sec. 20-37(a) | - |
| Total Fees | ~$404 (permit + admin + inspection) | - |
| CPF Required | Must operate from Central Preparation Facility | - |
| 2025 Change | Ch. 20 being repealed; fees aligning with DSHS | - |
| Health Permit | - | HCPH Mobile Food Unit |
| City License | - | Business license required |
| Inspections | - | Annual HCPH inspection |
| Commissary | - | Agreement required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Houston FAQ
How much does a food truck permit cost in Houston?
The Mobile Food Unit Medallion costs $258 plus a $33.56 administrative fee and $112.57 inspection fee, totaling approximately $404. This must be renewed annually.
Do Houston food trucks need a commercial kitchen?
Yes. All mobile food units must operate from an approved Central Preparation Facility (CPF) where food is prepared, stored, and packaged. You must report to the CPF daily.
Pasadena FAQ
What permits do I need for a food truck in Pasadena TX?
You need a Harris County Public Health Mobile Food Unit permit, a commissary agreement, food handler certifications, and applicable Pasadena city business permits.
How often are food trucks inspected?
HCPH conducts annual inspections of mobile food units. Additional inspections may occur in response to complaints or during special events.
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