San Francisco Food Truck Permits & Compliance Checklist

San Francisco Mobile Food Vendor Permit Requirements

The San Francisco Department of Public Health requires all food truck operators to obtain a Mobile Food Facility Permit before operating. You'll need to submit detailed plans including your menu, commissary location (for storage and prep), water source specifications, and waste disposal procedures—all must be approved before you receive your permit. The permit application requires proof of business liability insurance (minimum $1M), a valid Food Handler Card for all staff, and proof of a certified commissary agreement where you'll prepare, store, and clean your vehicle. San Francisco also requires Class A or B mobile food trucks to undergo a pre-operational inspection at your commissary, and you must display your active permit visibly on your truck at all times. Annual renewal is mandatory, and your permit expires on your anniversary date—plan renewals 30 days in advance to avoid operational gaps.

Critical Health Inspection Items & Common Violations

San Francisco DPH inspectors focus on temperature control, water quality, and cross-contamination prevention during mobile food facility inspections. Common violations include improper hot holding (foods not maintained at 135°F or above), inadequate hand-washing stations (must have hot/cold running water, soap, and paper towels), and missing thermometers or temperature logs that inspectors require you to maintain. Your truck must have a certified water system connected to an approved commissary, and greywater disposal must go to an appropriate facility—never into street drains. Keep detailed daily temperature logs for all refrigeration units, food preparation surfaces must be food-grade materials, and any ready-to-eat foods must be properly separated from raw proteins. Inspectors also verify that all staff have valid Food Handler Cards, your commissary agreement is current, and you're following your approved menu (deviations require a permit amendment). Documentation is critical—maintain copies of supplier receipts, temperature records, and commissary logs for at least one year.

Licensing, Insurance & Operational Compliance

Beyond your mobile food vendor permit, San Francisco requires a business tax registration certificate and proof of workers' compensation insurance if you have employees. Your food truck's license plate and vehicle registration must match your permit application, and you need written proof of your commissary location's approval from the San Francisco DPH—don't assume any kitchen qualifies. Many operators overlook the requirement to notify DPH if you change commissaries, menus significantly, or relocate your service area; any operational change requires written approval before implementation. Your Mobile Food Facility Permit is location-specific in some cases, so confirm whether you can operate at multiple locations or need separate permits. Keep all permits, insurance documents, Food Handler Certificates, and commissary agreements in your truck during operations—inspectors may request them on-site. Non-compliance can result in citations ($100–$500+), suspension of your permit, or criminal charges if health violations create public health risks.

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