Houston food truck permits: checklist & costs
What a food truck needs to operate in Houston, TX — the approvals, who issues them, typical fees and how often they renew.
Estimated first-year permitting
$600–$1,600
Permit checklist
1. Mobile Food Unit Permit
Houston Health Department · fee varies · renews every year
2. Fire Marshal Inspection
Houston Fire Department · fee varies · renews every year
3. County Mobile Unit Permit
Harris County Public Health · fee varies · renews every year
Things to know in Houston
- · City of Houston, Harris County and nearby counties each have their own requirements.
- · Operating across county lines usually means more than one permit.
Costs are planning ranges compiled from published fee schedules — not quotes. Fees, categories and timelines change, so verify locally with the issuing agency before you budget or apply.
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