Food Truck Requirements in Miami-Dade County in Florida

Can You Sell Food and Beverage out of a Truck in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes, you can sell food and beverage out of a truck in Miami-Dade County, Florida. However, you must first obtain the necessary permits from the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources. A Mobile Food Service Vendor Permit and a Mobile Food Service Vehicle Permit are required for all trucks wishing to sell food in Miami-Dade County. Other requirements may also apply.

What is the Food Truck Law in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

In Miami-Dade County, food trucks are allowed to operate on private property only. All food trucks must comply with the county’s health and sanitation requirements and obtain the proper permits and licenses. Additionally, food trucks must abide by certain zoning regulations, such as maintaining a minimum distance from residential structures and being parked away from existing restaurants. Food truck vendors must also obtain permission from the property owner before operating.

What is Required on a Food Label for Food Truck Food in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

In Miami-Dade County, Florida, food trucks must adhere to the same labeling requirements as conventional food establishments. This includes listing the ingredients, nutrition facts, and any potential allergens in the product. The food truck must also provide a consumer advisory statement about consuming raw or undercooked foods. Other required information includes the name of the business, contact information, and a best-by date if applicable.

Are Foods Sold out of a Food Truck Taxable in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes, food sold from a food truck in Miami-Dade County is subject to sales tax. The current rate is 7% and is in addition to the 6% state sales tax.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

In order to operate a food truck in Miami-Dade County, Florida, you will need a Mobile Food Vending Business License from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, as well as a Mobile Food Vending Permit from Miami-Dade County. Depending on the type of food items being sold from the food truck, additional permits or licenses may be required.

Do You Need a Vehicle Inspection for Food Trucks in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes. All food trucks operating in Miami-Dade County must complete an annual vehicle inspection from a licensed inspection station. The inspection must include a mechanical and safety inspection as well as verification of the vehicle’s valid registration and license plate. Additionally, the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources may require additional inspections.

Do You Need to Establish a Business Entity to Sell Food out of a Food Truck in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes, you need to establish a business entity to operate a food truck in Miami-Dade County, Florida. Depending on the type of business entity you choose, you may need to register with the Florida Department of State and the Miami-Dade County Office of Business Development. You may also need to obtain a Food Vending/Mobile Food Service Vehicle License from the Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources.

Can Food Trucks Serve Alcohol in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

No, food trucks are not allowed to serve alcohol in Miami-Dade County in Florida.

Do I Need a Fire Suppression System in My Food Truck in ?Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes, you are required to have a fire suppression system in your food truck in Miami-Dade County. The Miami-Dade Fire Rescue has specific requirements for food trucks, including the installation of an approved fire suppression system. The system must be approved by the local Fire Marshal and must be tested and inspected annually. It is also important to have emergency fire exit signs, portable fire extinguishers, and a fire alarm system.

Does a Food Truck Need a Food Handlers License in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

Yes. All establishments in Miami-Dade County that serve food are required to have a food handlers license. This includes food trucks.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

The cost for obtaining a food safety license or certification in Miami-Dade County in Florida varies depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. For example, the cost of a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification exam is $150, and the cost of a retail food establishment license is $175.

How Much does it Cost to Start a Food Truck in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

The cost to start a food truck in Miami-Dade County in Florida will vary depending on the size and type of truck, the location, and the startup costs such as insurance, licensing, permits, etc. However, generally speaking, startup costs for a food truck in Miami-Dade County can range from $5,000 to $15,000. This includes costs such as vehicle purchase or rental, equipment, supplies, and other miscellaneous costs.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responsible for regulating food safety in Miami-Dade County. The Department’s Division of Food Safety is tasked with ensuring that food is safe and correctly labeled, inspecting food establishments, and investigating complaints.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

In Miami-Dade County, Florida, the Food Handlers Card is valid for three years from the date of issuance. Renewal of the card is required every three years in order to maintain valid certification.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Miami-Dade County in Florida?

The penalties for selling food without a permit in Miami-Dade County, Florida are detailed in the Miami-Dade County Code, Section 4-2.17. Depending on the severity of the violation, penalties may range from a warning letter to a citation with fines of up to $500 per day for each day the violation continues. Additionally, the Miami-Dade County Department of Public Health and Safety has the authority to close an establishment if necessary and can take further administrative action against the permit holder, including suspension or revocation of the permit.