San Diego County, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit Required
- County DEHQ Public Health Permit
- Commissary
- Required for all mobile food facilities
- Code
- County Code Title 6, Division 1
- Food Handlers
- CA Food Handler Cards required
- Authority
- County DEHQ
Summary
Mobile food facilities in unincorporated San Diego County must obtain a Public Health Permit from the County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ) under County Code Title 6, Division 1. All facilities must operate from an approved commissary.
and Safety Code is amended to read: 113831. (a) “Mobile food facility” means any vehicle used in conjunction with a commissary or other permanent food facility upon which food is sold or distributed at retail. “Mobile food facility” does not include a “transporter” used to transport packaged food from a food facility, or other approved source to the consumer. (b) “Single operating site mobile food facilities” means at least one, but not more than four, unenclosed mobile food facilities, and their auxiliary units, that operate adjacent to each other at a single location. (c) “Compact mobile food operation” means 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. SEC. 3.
Full Breakdown
All mobile food facilities operating in unincorporated San Diego County must obtain a Public Health Permit from the County DEHQ. Facilities must operate in conjunction with an approved commissary or permanent food facility for servicing, cleaning, and storage. Mobile food operators need a valid business tax certificate. DEHQ conducts plan review and inspections. The permit application requires commissary agreement documentation, menu, equipment list, and vehicle/cart specifications. California Retail Food Code (CalCode) standards apply. Food handlers must have valid California Food Handler Cards. Mobile food operations must maintain proper food temperatures, sanitation, and waste disposal. Operating hours and locations may be subject to zoning restrictions.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a permit may result in closure orders, fines, and potential criminal charges. Health code violations lead to scoring deductions and possible permit suspension.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a food truck permit in unincorporated San Diego County?
Do I need a commissary?
What training do food handlers need?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego County
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego County to another location·View the California food trucks & mobile vendors overview
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