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

Los Angeles vs Santa Clarita

How do food truck permits rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Clarita, CA?

Los Angeles and Santa Clarita have similar restriction levels.

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 →

Santa Clarita, CA

Los Angeles County

Some Restrictions

Food truck operators need a Vending Permit from the city, a CA Retail Food Facility Permit, and a Business Tax Registration Certificate. Sidewalk vending per SCMC 11.37.

View full Santa Clarita rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactLos AngelesSanta Clarita
Code SectionLAMC 80.73-
Health PermitLA County DPH requiredCA Retail Food Facility
School Buffer500 ft from any school-
Intersection Buffer100 ft minimum-
Service SideSidewalk side only-
City Permit-Vending permit required
Tax Cert-Business Tax Registration
Sidewalk Code-SCMC 11.37

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

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.

Santa Clarita FAQ

How do I get a food truck permit?

Apply through Santa Clarita 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 Los Angeles and Santa Clarita 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