Miami vs North Miami
How do food truck permits rules compare between Miami, FL and North Miami, FL?
Miami and North Miami have similar restriction levels.
Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami requires food trucks to obtain a Mobile Food Vendor permit and comply with Miami-Dade County health regulations. Food trucks must pass health inspections and maintain proper licensing from both city and county agencies.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Permits Required | City mobile vendor, county health, DBPR license | - |
| Health Inspections | Miami-Dade County Environmental Health | - |
| State License | FL DBPR food service license | DBPR mobile food license |
| Distance Rules | Buffer from brick-and-mortar restaurants | - |
| 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
What permits does a food truck need in Miami?
You need a city Mobile Food Vendor permit, Florida DBPR food service license, and Miami-Dade County health permit. Health inspections must be passed before operating.
How close can a food truck park to a restaurant?
Miami requires food trucks to maintain a buffer distance from brick-and-mortar restaurants to reduce competitive impact. Specific distances vary by area and ordinance.
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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