Welcome to this detailed guide from the Food Truck Association of San Diego (FTASD). As the premier organization connecting and supporting San Diego's innovative mobile food vendors, we champion the growth of our local food truck community. Food trucks bring diverse, fresh cuisines to beaches, breweries, corporate campuses, events, and neighborhoods throughout San Diego County. Operating a food truck here offers exciting opportunities to serve customers in iconic locations like Balboa Park gatherings or downtown lunch rushes.

This blog provides an accurate overview of the permits and licenses required to legally operate a food truck in San Diego, as of December 2025. Regulations primarily follow the California Retail Food Code, enforced at the county level by the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ). The City of San Diego adds zoning and operational rules, especially for private property or public right-of-way vending.

Key requirements include:
- A Mobile Food Facility (MFF) Health Permit from San Diego County DEHQ.
- A Business Tax Certificate from the City of San Diego (if operating within city limits).
- A Mobile Food Truck Permit from the City for certain private property operations.

Most food trucks are classified as Occupied Mobile Food Facilities (OMFFs) or unrestricted MFFs, requiring a commissary for daily servicing. Prepackaged only trucks have simpler rules. Whether you launch a new truck or maintain compliance, this guide covers essentials, application steps, common challenges, and tips from FTASD members.

California enforces uniform food safety standards via the Retail Food Code, but counties handle permitting and inspections. San Diego County DEHQ oversees over 1,200 mobile food facilities, conducting plan reviews, inspections, and grading (A, B, C system since 2012). The City of San Diego regulates land use through the Land Development Code (§141.0612) and Municipal Code. No broad street vending permit exists for motorized food trucks in public right-of-way, but specific zones allow operations with restrictions. Private property often requires a city Mobile Food Truck Permit unless exempt.

Fire safety falls under local fire departments, often tied to county health approvals for cooking equipment. No major statewide changes affected San Diego food trucks in 2025, but note updated fee schedules and ongoing emphasis on commissary compliance. This structure balances flexibility for vendors with strong public health protections.

The core permit comes from the county.

1. Mobile Food Facility (MFF) Health Permit
This primary permit ensures compliance with the California Retail Food Code.
- Issuer: San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ), Food and Housing Division.
- Types: Occupied MFF (OMFF) for enclosed trucks with on-site prep; Unoccupied for open setups; Prepackaged for non-perishable sales.
- Process:
a. Submit plans for new or remodeled vehicles, including layout, equipment, plumbing, and ventilation.
b. Secure a commissary agreement: Most trucks need a licensed commercial kitchen for storage, waste disposal, water, and daily servicing. Overnight storage at home is prohibited.
c. Complete application (e.g., DEH: FH-152) with Infection Prevention Plan.
Pass initial inspection at DEHQ facility (5500 Overland Avenue).
d. Display grade card and county sticker.
e. Renewal: Annual, with routine unannounced inspections. 

This permit allows for countywide operations, including those in unincorporated areas and cities.

2. Food Handler Cards
All food-handling employees need a San Diego County Food Handler Card (county-specific test required). Managers may need a Certified Food Protection Manager certification.

3. Commissary Requirements
Trucks must return daily to an approved commissary. Keep logs for inspections.

For operations within city limits.

1. Business Tax Certificate
Issuer: City of San Diego Treasurer's Office.
- Purpose: Required for any business in the city.
- Process: Apply online or in person; modest fee based on business type.
- Renewal: Annual.
- Display in the truck.

2. Mobile Food Truck Permit (for Private Property)
- Issuer: City Development Services Department (DSD).
When required: For daily operations on private property in certain zones (e.g., commercial, mixed-use) unless exempt.
Exemptions include: Industrial zones, schools/hospitals with permission, construction sites, public right-of-way per code, and multi-unit residential.
- Process: Submit site plan, owner consent, and proof of county health permit. Fees vary by review complexity.
- Restrictions: Prohibited in areas like Gaslamp Quarter or Little Italy without special event approval.
On-street operations follow specific rules (distances, hours).

3. Special Events or Temporary Permits
For festivals or gatherings, organizers often handle approvals; individual trucks use a county Temporary Food Facility permit if needed.

1. Seller's Permit
Register with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) for sales tax collection on taxable items.

2. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Free from IRS if hiring employees.

3. Insurance and Vehicle Registration
Commercial auto insurance is mandatory; DMV registration is required for commercial vehicles.

4. Fire Safety
Trucks with cooking (grease, flames) need fire suppression systems inspected during the county process. The local fire marshal may require separate clearance.

Location Rules
- Private property: Owner permission required; city permit in many cases.
- Public right-of-way: Allowed in designated areas with restrictions (e.g., no blocking, distances from intersections).
- Beaches/parks: Often need separate park permits.
- No residential overnight parking.

Inspections and Compliance
- Expect unannounced DEHQ visits. Maintain temperature logs, sanitation records, and commissary reports.
A. Costs Overview
- County MFF permit: Varies by risk level (around $500 to $1,000 annually).
- Plan review: Additional fees.
- Business Tax Certificate: Starting around $34.

City Mobile Food Truck Permit: Varies, often hundreds annually.
Food Handler Cards: Low cost.

Budget for commissary rental ($500+ monthly) and renewals.

- Plan your truck and menu; determine MFF type.
- Secure commissary agreement.
- Submit plans to DEHQ for review.
- Build/modify vehicle to code.
- Apply for a county MFF permit and pass inspection.
- Obtain Food Handler Cards.
- Register for Seller's Permit and EIN.
- Apply for City Business Tax Certificate.
- If needed, apply for the City Mobile Food Truck Permit.
- Secure insurance and start operations.
- Allow 3 to 6 months.

Members advise starting with the commissary search—it's crucial and often delayed. "Get plans approved early; changes later cost time and money," shares one veteran. For city operations, verify zoning upfront. Common pitfalls: Assuming street vending is free everywhere or skipping commissary logs. Join FTASD for event bookings, networking, and regulatory updates. We advocate for fair policies supporting San Diego's renowned food truck culture.

Proper permitting ensures safety, avoids fines/closures, and opens doors to prime events. Compliant trucks build customer trust and contribute to our vibrant scene, from taco trucks to gourmet fusions. San Diego's food trucks thrive at markets, weddings, and daily spots. Stay compliant to succeed. Contact FTASD or the listed agencies for help. Enjoy the ride!