Auburn, WA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

Operating a food truck in Auburn requires a layered set of permits. At the state level, operators must hold a Washington State Business License through the Department of Revenue. Because Auburn spans King County and Pierce County, health permits are issued either by Seattle and King County Public Health as mobile food unit (MFU) permits for sites on the King County side, or by Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department for the Pierce County portion including Lakeland Hills. Health permits come in tiers based on menu risk and operating mode. The health department inspects trucks, trailers, and carts for water, wastewater, refrigeration, hot holding, and commissary arrangements. At the city level, vendors must obtain an Auburn business license and, if operating on public right-of-way or public property, a separate right-of-way or special event permit. Trucks serving at private businesses like breweries or offices need the private site owner's permission and must still have health and state licenses displayed. Propane tanks must meet fire code separation distances; cooking exhaust often requires a Type I hood for grease-laden vapors. Public event operations at Les Gove Park, Game Farm Park, or the Auburn Farmers Market require coordination with Parks, Special Events, and Valley Regional Fire Authority. Sales tax must be remitted under RCW 82.08. Auburn Business License staff at (253) 931-3053 handle licensing questions.