Food trucks in Boston require a Mobile Food Vendor License from the city's Licensing Board and a permit from the Inspectional Services Department. Operators must pass a health inspection, obtain a fire safety inspection, and have commissary agreements. Boston limits the total number of mobile food vendor licenses.
Operating a food truck in Boston requires multiple permits and licenses. The primary license is the Mobile Food Vendor License issued by the Boston Licensing Board. Applicants must demonstrate a commissary agreement with a licensed commercial kitchen for food preparation, storage, and waste disposal. ISD conducts health inspections of the vehicle and reviews the menu and food safety plan. A fire safety inspection is required for trucks with cooking equipment. Operators must obtain a Massachusetts food handler certification. Boston limits the number of mobile food vendor licenses and assigns operating locations through a permitting process — food trucks cannot park anywhere and must operate at approved locations. Operating hours are typically restricted, and trucks must maintain a minimum distance from brick-and-mortar restaurants (generally 50-100 feet depending on location). All food trucks must display their license prominently and carry liability insurance. The city periodically designates food truck zones in areas like the Rose Kennedy Greenway and City Hall Plaza.
Operating without a license carries fines up to $300 per day and vehicle impoundment. Health code violations result in immediate shut-down and potential license revocation. Operating at unauthorized locations carries a $200 fine. Repeat violations may result in permanent license revocation.
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