Sterling Heights, MI Food Trucks & Mobile Vendors: Food Truck Permits (2026)
Key Facts
- Permit
- Fire Department operational permit required
- Health permit
- Macomb County Health Dept. permit needed
- Insurance
- Current certificate of insurance required
- LP-gas
- Annual leak/inspection test required
Summary
Every mobile food truck or trailer operating in Sterling Heights needs a fire department operational permit, plus proof of the county health permit, insurance, and an annual LP-gas inspection.
105.5.34. Mobile food preparation vehicles. An operational permit is required for all mobile food preparation vehicles and trailers. In addition to the requirements set forth in fire department regulations, at a minimum an applicant for a permit shall include with the properly completed permit application a copy of its current county health department mobile food vendor permit, a copy of its current certificate of insurance, and a copy of the results of its annual LP gas system inspection/leakage test required by section 4106.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-46: Local legislation current through Ord. 509, passed 5-19-26).
Full Breakdown
The City of Sterling Heights, Michigan, in Macomb County, adopted the 2024 International Fire Code with local amendments, and Section 105.5.34 requires an operational permit for every mobile food preparation vehicle or trailer working in the city. Applicants must submit a current Macomb County Health Department mobile food vendor permit, a certificate of insurance, and results of the annual LP-gas system leak/inspection test required under Fire Code Section 4106. Separately, the zoning ordinance restricts where trucks can park: hard-surfaced lots only, temporary-use approval from the Planning Office, and setbacks from hydrants, driveways, and sidewalks.
Violations & Fines
Operating without the fire department's operational permit, or without current health, insurance, or LP-gas inspection documentation, is a code violation enforceable under Chapter 20's general penalty provisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a food truck need a city permit to operate in Sterling Heights?
Where can a food truck park in Sterling Heights?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sterling Heights
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Food Truck Permits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Macomb County handle food truck permits.