Iowa Statewide Rule
Iowa Mobile Food Unit Licensing Statewide
Key Facts
- Primary Statute
- Iowa Code Ch. 137F
- Regulations
- IAC 481-31
- Licensing Agency
- Iowa DIAL
- Food Code
- 2012 FDA adoption
- Local Override
- Cannot waive
Summary
Iowa Code Chapter 137F universally requires state food establishment licenses for mobile food units operating anywhere in Iowa. The state license is a prerequisite for any local food truck permit and applies uniformly statewide.
The regulatory authority shall collect the following annual license fees: a. For a mobile food unit or pushcart, two hundred fifty dollars. b. For a temporary food establishment per fixed location for a single event, fifty dollars. c. For a temporary food establishment for multiple nonconcurrent events during a calendar year, one annual license fee of two hundred dollars for each establishment on a statewide basis.
Full Breakdown
Iowa Code Chapter 137F (Food Establishments) and Iowa Administrative Code Chapter 481-31 require all mobile food units, including food trucks, pushcarts, and food trailers, to obtain a state food establishment license before operating. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing administers the program, with inspections often delegated to county and city public health departments. The 2012 FDA Food Code is incorporated by reference, establishing uniform safe food handling rules. Cities may issue additional vending or zoning permits, but they cannot waive the underlying state license. License fees and renewal cycles are set by state rule and apply consistently in every Iowa jurisdiction.
Violations & Penalties
Operating without a state food establishment license is a misdemeanor with civil penalties and may result in immediate closure orders by inspectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Iowa food trucks need both state and local permits?
Who inspects Iowa food trucks?
Sources
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