Denver requires mobile food vendors to obtain multiple licenses under DRMC Chapter 24 (Food and Food Handlers) and Chapter 6 (Business Licensing). Food trucks need a Denver business license, a mobile food vendor license from Denver Environmental Health, a sales tax license, and must comply with the Denver Fire Code for cooking equipment.
Food truck operators must obtain a Denver Retail Food Establishment License from the Denver Department of Public Health and Environment (DDPHE), Environmental Health Division. Annual inspections are required. Trucks must meet fire safety standards including fire suppression systems for cooking equipment. A commissary agreement with a licensed kitchen facility is required for food storage, preparation, and cleaning. Food trucks must comply with zoning rules for vending locations. Denver allows food trucks on private property with owner permission and in designated public vending zones. Trucks must display all licenses visibly. Health department grades must be posted.
Operating without required licenses is a criminal misdemeanor under DRMC. Health code violations can result in immediate closure. Fines range from $150 to $999 per violation per day. Failed health inspections require re-inspection before reopening. Operating in a prohibited zone results in citations and potential towing. Repeated violations can lead to license revocation.
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