Food Truck Permits: Miami vs North Miami
How do food truck permits rules compare between Miami, FL and North Miami, FL?
North Miami has fewer restrictions than Miami.
Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami food trucks must hold a Florida DBPR Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle (MFDV) license ($347 annually) plus a City of Miami Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt. Florida state law (HB 1193, F.S. §509.102) preempts city bans, but Miami Code §35-223 restricts vending on most public rights-of-way and requires private-property operation with owner consent.
View full Miami rules →North Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Food trucks operating in North Miami must hold a valid Florida DBPR mobile food dispensing vehicle license and Miami-Dade County health permit. Since 2020, Florida law preempts cities from requiring a separate local business license for food trucks. The city regulates locations, hours, and operational standards through its code of ordinances.
View full North Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami | North Miami |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| State License | - | DBPR mobile food license |
| Local License | - | Preempted by FL law (2020) |
| Health Permit | - | Miami-Dade County required |
| Commissary | - | Agreement required |
| Planning Dept | - | (305) 895-9825 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami FAQ
Where can I park my food truck in Miami?
Almost exclusively on private property with written owner consent — Miami Code §35-223 bans vending on most public sidewalks and streets. Some city parks allow it via separate concession agreements. Food truck rallies at private lots are the dominant model.
How long does a Miami food truck permit take?
The DBPR MFDV license takes 2–4 weeks after state inspection. Add 2–3 weeks for the City of Miami Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt, and 1 week for the Miami-Dade local BTR.
How much does a Miami food truck permit cost?
$347/year for the DBPR MFDV license, plus a Miami Business Tax Receipt (~$45–$300 depending on category), a Miami-Dade BTR (~$45), and a Certificate of Use ($150–$300). No annual city food permit thanks to state preemption.
North Miami FAQ
Do I need a North Miami business license for my food truck?
No. Since July 2020, Florida law preempts cities from requiring a separate local business license for mobile food dispensing vehicles. You need a valid DBPR state license and Miami-Dade County health permit.
Where can food trucks operate in North Miami?
The city regulates food truck locations through its code of ordinances. Operations on private property require written owner authorization. Special events require event permits. Contact the Planning Department at (305) 895-9825 for location regulations.
What health and safety requirements apply?
A Miami-Dade County health permit, valid DBPR license, commissary agreement, and current fire safety equipment (fire extinguishers) are all required. Health inspections are conducted by Miami-Dade County.
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