Minneapolis, MN Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 188.485
- Liability insurance
- $1,000,000 per occurrence
- Operating hours
- 6 a.m.-midnight citywide
- License renewal
- Expires every April 1
- Vehicle height limit
- 13 feet, 6 inches
Summary
Minneapolis requires a mobile food vehicle license under Section 188.485 before any food truck operates on public streets or private property, with a detailed plan-review application and $1,000,000 in liability insurance coverage.
No person shall operate a mobile food vehicle in the city without a valid license required under this section. to the extent authorized in any such license granted under the provisions of this section, the licensee may conduct such licensed business curbside on the street or on private property notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 188.10, 427.110, 478.90(u, w, and y), 478.350, 478.370, 430.30, 439.30, and 550.420 of this code.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72).
Full Breakdown
Before building or operating a food truck, applicants must submit construction plans, menu details, a licensed commercial kitchen affiliation, and proof of $1,000,000 in liability insurance to the licensing division. Vehicles must park within one foot of the curb, stay 100 feet from restaurants and sidewalk cafes absent written consent, and avoid city fairs or civic events within 500 feet and sports arena entrances within 500 feet. Operating hours run 6 a.m. to midnight citywide, narrowing to 7 a.m.-10 p.m. within 300 feet of a residential building. No drive-throughs, outdoor speakers, or unattended vehicles are allowed, and each licensed truck cannot exceed 13 feet 6 inches in height. Licenses expire every April 1 and are valid for one vehicle only.
Violations & Fines
Operating without a license, exceeding permitted hours, blocking a bike lane, or violating siting distances can bring license denial, suspension, revocation, or a citation after notice and a hearing before the licensing official.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to run a food truck in Minneapolis?
How close can a Minneapolis food truck park to a restaurant?
What hours can Minneapolis food trucks operate?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Minneapolis
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