Burlington, WI Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

1, added in 2018. Before operating a mobile food vehicle or pushcart on a public right-of-way or public property, a vendor must obtain a vendor vehicle permit from the City Clerk's office. The written application covers the name, signature and address of each applicant or corporate officer, the vehicle's make, model, VIN and license plate, and a valid copy of every license, permit or certificate required by Racine County, the State of Wisconsin, or their enforcement agencies, including proof of vehicle registration and drivers' licenses for all operators.

The Clerk may order a background check and refer the file to the Chief of Police, who can complete an investigation of the statements made. The Clerk can refuse the permit for a material omission or inaccurate statement, ineligibility under Wis. 1C. A granted permit runs for one year, expires every January 1, is not assignable or transferable, is valid for a single vehicle only, and must be permanently and prominently affixed to the truck. Fees, late fees and renewal fees follow the fee schedule set by the Common Council.

Before starting service, operators also need a food establishment permit honored through the Central Racine County Health Department and a Fire Department inspection for life-safety compliance, with a certificate of compliance affixed to the vehicle. The City Clerk or Chief of Police can suspend or revoke a permit for a material omission, a chapter violation, noise complaints tied to the truck, or loss of eligibility under state law, with written notice served on the operator.