Philadelphia, PA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

Philadelphia Code § 9-203 governs the license every mobile food vendor needs before selling from a truck, cart, or other conveyance on a public street. The Section defines a Mobile Food Vendor as "a self-contained food service operation, located in a readily movable motorized vehicle with wheels, or in a vehicle with wheels capable of being towed by a motorized vehicle, designed for the preparation, display and service of food and beverages to patrons; but not including pushcarts," per § 9-203(1)(e), and separately defines a Mobile Food Vehicle at § 9-203(1)(f). It is unlawful to engage in the business of a street vendor, including mobile food vending, without first obtaining a license from the Department of Licenses and Inspections, per § 9-203(2). Licenses run on a calendar year, from January 1 through December 31, unless suspended or revoked, per § 9-203(2)(b).

To be issued a license, an applicant must furnish a physical description, proof of identity and address with two photographs, a description of what will be sold and whether it is home-produced, the employer's name and address if applicable, the vehicle's registration and license number, and, for anyone selling food or drink, undergo the Department's examination confirming the applicant, employee, or attendant has no communicable disease, per § 9-203(3)(a). Fees are a non-refundable $20 initial application fee, credited toward the annual fee if the license issues, plus an annual license fee of $330, per § 9-203(3)(b). Every vendor must carry the license, wear a Department-issued identification badge on the right breast of the outer garment, and display a vendor license plate on the conveyance, with colors that change each calendar year, per § 9-203(4). Vendors must notify the Department of any change in business address or residence within 30 days, per § 9-203(5), and every license remains conditioned on continued compliance with Title 6, the Health Code, per § 9-203(6).