Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of a Truck in Los Angeles County in California?
Yes, you can sell food and beverages out of a truck in Los Angeles County in California. However, you must obtain the necessary permits and licenses from the county, as well as any other applicable local or state laws. You must also adhere to all food safety regulations and all regulations related to running a business in the county.
What is the Food Truck Law in Los Angeles County in California?
The Food Truck Law in Los Angeles County in California requires that food trucks obtain a valid permit from the county health department before they can operate. The permit must be renewed annually. The law also requires food trucks to comply with local laws, including zoning and health regulations. It also requires that all food trucks be kept clean and that all workers wear protective clothing. In addition, the law requires that food trucks must not block streets or sidewalks and must be parked in designated areas.
What is Required on a Food Label for Food Truck Food in Los Angeles County in California?
In Los Angeles County, food truck vendors must adhere to the California Retail Food Code (CalCode), which is the set of regulations issued by the California Department of Public Health’s Food and Drug Branch.
Under this code, food labels for food truck food must include the following information:
1. The name of the product.
2. Ingredients listed in descending order by weight, including common allergens.
3. The net weight or volume of the product.
4. The name and address of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
5. A safe handling statement, storage instructions, and/or use-by date if applicable.
6. Nutrition facts including serving size, number of servings per container, calories, fat, saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, sodium, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, sugars, and added sugars.
7. An ingredient statement that reads “Contains milk, eggs, wheat, soybean” and/or other common allergens as applicable for the product.
8. Any special statements concerning health or nutrition claims made for the product.
9. A statement notifying consumers that a particular item may be manufactured in a facility that also processes peanuts or other allergens if applicable.
Are Foods Sold out of a Food Truck Taxable in Los Angeles County in California?
Yes, foods sold out of a food truck in Los Angeles County in California are taxable. Sales tax must be collected from customers in accordance with California law.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Los Angeles County in California?
In Los Angeles County, California, you will need a Health Permit and a Mobile Food Vending Permit to operate a food truck. Additionally, you may need to obtain a Business License from the county or city government where you plan to operate your food truck. You may also need to obtain additional permits from local governments where you plan to operate your food truck.
Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection for Food Trucks in Los Angeles County in California?
Yes, food truck operators in Los Angeles County must obtain an annual health inspection from the Environmental Health Inspection Program. Inspections must be conducted in accordance with the California Retail Food Code and other applicable regulations.
Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Food out of a Food Truck in Los Angeles County in California?
Yes. In Los Angeles County, you must establish a business entity (e.g., an LLC or corporation) and obtain permits, licenses, and insurance before operating a food truck. Depending on the type of food you plan to sell, you may also need to obtain a health permit from the local health authority.
Can Food Trucks Serve Alcohol in Los Angeles County in California?
No, food trucks are not allowed to serve alcohol in Los Angeles County in California.
Do I Need a Fire Suppression System in My Food Truck in ?Los Angeles County in California?
Yes, you do need a fire suppression system in your food truck in Los Angeles County, California. The California Fire Code requires that all commercial cooking operations, including those in mobile food facilities, have an approved fire suppression system installed and maintained. This system must be inspected by a certified fire protection service provider on a regular basis to ensure that it is functioning properly.
Does a Food Truck Need a Food Handlers License in Los Angeles County in California?
Yes, a food truck doing business in Los Angeles County in California must obtain a valid food handlers license. Food handlers are required to take a course and complete an examination that covers food safety and sanitation. The license must be renewed annually.
How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Los Angeles County in California?
The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Los Angeles County in California varies, depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, the cost of obtaining a basic food handler certification starts at around $15, while the cost of obtaining a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification can range from $100 to $200. The cost for obtaining an alcohol permit can range from $100 to $200.
How Much does it Cost to Start a Food Truck in Los Angeles County in California?
The cost of starting a food truck in Los Angeles County in California can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more. Costs vary depending on the size of the truck, the number of menu items, permits, licenses, equipment and other factors. The cost of securing a location for your food truck will also need to be considered.
Who Regulates Food Safety in Los Angeles County in California?
Food safety in Los Angeles County is regulated by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH). The LACDPH is responsible for ensuring that all food establishments abide by California’s food safety regulations and that they use safe food handling practices. The LACDPH also inspects food establishments for compliance.
How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Los Angeles County in California?
A Food Handler’s Card issued in Los Angeles County, California, is valid for three years from the date of issue.
What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Los Angeles County in California?
In Los Angeles County, California, selling food without a permit is considered a misdemeanor and can result in a fine of up to $1000 and/or up to six months in jail. Additionally, the California Department of Public Health and the local health department have the authority to issue “stop sale” orders on food and beverages sold without a permit. This means that the food must be discarded or corrected prior to being sold.
English 
Spanish