Food Truck Permits: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do food truck permits rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Santa Monica has fewer restrictions than Los Angeles.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Los Angeles food trucks must obtain a Mobile Food Facility (MFF) permit from LA County Department of Public Health (~$702/year) plus an LA Business Tax Registration Certificate. Trucks must operate from an approved commissary, return nightly, and may not park in one location longer than allowed by LAMC §80.73 metered/posted limits.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Food trucks in Santa Monica are regulated as vehicle vendors under SMMC Ch. 6.36. A city business license and LA County Health Permit are required. Sidewalk vending requires a separate permit under the city's vending program.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Business License | - | Required |
| Health Permit | - | LA County required |
| Code | - | SMMC Ch. 6.36 |
| Letter Grade | - | Must be displayed on cart |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Where can I park my food truck in LA?
On public streets in commercial/industrial zones, but no longer than 30 minutes (commercial) or 60 minutes (industrial) in one spot. No vending within 500 ft of schools during school hours, and residential zones are off-limits except for private catered events.
How long does the permit take?
Plan on 4–6 weeks from application to issuance. The truck must pass a plan check and an in-person inspection at the LA County DPH facility in Baldwin Park before the permit is issued.
How much does a food truck permit cost in Los Angeles?
The LA County Mobile Food Facility health permit runs about $702 annually for a full-prep truck, plus a city Business Tax Registration Certificate (variable) and commissary fees of roughly $400–$700/month.
Santa Monica FAQ
How do I get a food truck permit?
Apply through Santa Monica 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 Monica 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