Oakland County, MI Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

Food truck licensing in Oakland County is delegated to the Oakland County Health Division under the Michigan Food Law (Act 92 of 2000, MCL 289.1101 et seq.). OCHD enforces the 2013 FDA Food Code as adopted by Michigan. Two operating models: (1) Mobile Food Establishment (MFE) - the truck must return to a licensed commissary at least once every 24 hours for servicing, water refill, waste discharge; commissary verification form must be carried on the vehicle (MCL 289.4117); license issued by the local health jurisdiction where the commissary is located. (2) Special Transitory Food Unit (STFU) - a state-wide license that does not require a 24-hour commissary return; STFU holder must submit notice of intent to operate to each local health department at least 4 days before serving food. Per MCL 289.6135, every MFE must affix business name and address to each side of the exterior in letters at least 3 inches high and 3/8 inch wide, contrasting the vehicle background; two state-issued decals must be affixed at licensing. State license fees set by MDARD: MFE about $80-$150 plus local plan review; STFU $159 license + $197 plan review (first time) + $90 annual inspection fee. OCHD additionally charges its own plan-review fee schedule effective October 1, 2025. Plan review and inspections handled via OCHDPlanReview@oakgov.com / 248-424-7191. As of February 9, 2026 OCHD transitioned applications to Accela Citizen Access. In addition to the state/county food license, each Oakland city/township may require a separate vending permit, zoning approval, business license, and proof of insurance (see vending-zones).