Key Facts Full Breakdown Violations FAQ Sources

San Rafael, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

Heavy Restrictions

Source: California Health and Safety Code 113700 →

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Key Facts

Statute: H&S Code 113700-114437
Permit issuer: County health department
Commissary required: Yes for most MFFs
SB 972: Vendor reform 2022

California state rule: San Rafael does not have a local ordinance for food truck permits. This topic is governed by California state law and applies uniformly across the state.

Summary

California Retail Food Code (Health and Safety Code 113700-114437) sets uniform mobile food facility permit, equipment, and food safety standards enforced by counties statewide.

Full Breakdown

California regulates mobile food facilities (MFFs) under the California Retail Food Code, codified at Health and Safety Code sections 113700 through 114437. The code establishes uniform standards for mobile food vehicles, including construction, water and waste tanks, commissary requirements, food handler cards, and operator permits. Each MFF must obtain a permit from the local environmental health department in the county where it is principally based and display the permit and operator card. While cities and counties may regulate location, hours, and zoning of food trucks, the core food safety and permit framework is uniform. SB 972 (2022) modernized standards and reduced barriers for sidewalk vendors and microenterprise food operations.

Violations & Fines

Operating without a Mobile Food Facility permit is a misdemeanor. Health code violations can result in immediate closure orders. Uncertified food handlers face fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a state license to operate a food truck in California?

You need a Mobile Food Facility permit issued by the county environmental health department where your truck is based. The state Retail Food Code sets the standards counties enforce.

Can different California cities have different food truck rules?

Cities can regulate where and when food trucks operate, but food safety, equipment, and permit standards are uniform statewide under the California Retail Food Code.

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San Rafael, CA Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)

Key Facts

Summary

Full Breakdown

Violations & Fines

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources & Official References

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