Berkeley, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Health permit
- Alameda County EH
- Business license
- Berkeley Finance
- Zoning
- Commercial/industrial
- School buffer
- 200 feet
- State law
- SB 946
Summary
Berkeley food trucks need a Mobile Food Facility permit from Alameda County Environmental Health, a city business license, and must follow CA Retail Food Code and SB 946 sidewalk vending law.
This bill would define "compact mobile food operation" as a mobile food facility that operates from an individual or from a pushcart, stand, display, pedal-driven cart, wagon, showcase, rack, or other nonmotorized conveyance. This bill would require a compact mobile food operation to meet the applicable requirements of mobile food facilities, except as specified. The bill would exempt a compact mobile food operation that has 25 square feet or less of display area and sells only prepackaged, nonpotentially hazardous foods or whole uncooked produce from the code, except as specified.
Full Breakdown
Mobile food vendors operating in Berkeley must obtain multiple approvals. Alameda County Environmental Health issues Mobile Food Facility (MFF) permits under the California Retail Food Code (Health and Safety Code 113700 et seq.) covering vehicle inspection, food safety, handwashing, and wastewater disposal. Berkeley requires a city Business License through the Finance Department and compliance with zoning rules on where trucks may operate - typically allowed in commercial and industrial zones with Use Permit for regular locations. Street vending is governed by SB 946 (2018) which decriminalized sidewalk vending statewide and limits cities to health, safety, and regulatory controls. Trucks must maintain 200-foot separation from schools during school hours. Commissary requirements mandate nightly parking at a permitted commissary. Propane and generator use must meet fire code. Sales tax permit required from CDTFA.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a food truck park on any street?
Do I need a commissary?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Berkeley
California rules heatmap·Compare Berkeley to another location·View the California food trucks & mobile vendors overview
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Food Truck Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Alameda County handle food truck permits.