Food trucks in Detroit must obtain multiple permits including a mobile food vendor license from the city, a food service license from the Detroit Health Department, and comply with fire safety and vehicle requirements.
Detroit requires food truck operators to obtain a Mobile Food Vendor License from the City Clerk's office. Operators must also hold a food service license from the Detroit Health Department, which requires passing a health inspection. Food trucks must have a valid Michigan business license, sales tax license, and vehicle registration. Fire safety requirements include having a commercial-grade fire suppression system and fire extinguisher. Food trucks must operate at least 200 feet from the entrance of a restaurant during that restaurant's operating hours unless invited by the restaurant. Vending is prohibited within 500 feet of schools during school hours. Trucks must not block traffic, fire hydrants, or building entrances. Food handling staff must have food safety certification (ServSafe or equivalent).
Operating without a mobile food vendor license can result in fines up to $500 and vehicle impoundment. Health code violations can result in immediate closure, fines, and license revocation. Operating too close to restaurants or schools carries fines and potential license suspension.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Detroit, MI
Aircraft noise is regulated federally by the FAA under 14 CFR Part 150. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is located in Romulus, not Detroit. C...
Detroit, MI
Detroit City Code Chapter 31 and Chapter 50 (Zoning) regulate industrial noise. Industrial properties must comply with setback-based decibel limits at proper...
Detroit, MI
Detroit City Code Chapter 31 establishes zone-based decibel limits. Residential: 55 dBA night / 65 dBA day. Commercial: 65 / 70 dBA. Industrial: 70 / 75 dBA....
Detroit, MI
Detroit follows Michigan Energy Code and Michigan Building Code for EV charger installation. Residential Level 2 chargers require an electrical permit from B...
Detroit, MI
Detroit restricts street parking under City Code Chapter 55. Vehicles cannot park in the same on-street spot for more than 48 consecutive hours. Posted meter...
Detroit, MI
Michigan Residential Code Appendix G and Detroit Building Code require a minimum 4-foot barrier around all swimming pools (in-ground and above-ground over 24...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Wayne County.
See how other cities in Wayne County handle food truck permits.
See how Detroit's food truck permits rules stack up against other locations.
Quick Compare
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.