Food Truck Permit Requirements in San Diego, CA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in San Diego, San Diego County, California.

Updated 2026-03-13 8 stops $1,200–$2,800 est. 6–10 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

    Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of California

3 stops

  1. California Seller's Permit (Sales Tax)

    Required to collect and remit California state sales tax on taxable food and beverage sales. Hot prepared food sold by food trucks is generally taxable. Issued free by the CDTFA.

    Official government source

    Free (security deposit may be required)Immediate (online registration)

  2. California Food Handler Card (per employee)

    All food employees in California must obtain a California Food Handler Card from an ANSI-accredited provider within 30 days of hire. Card is valid for 3 years.

    Official government source

    $7–$15 per employeeSame day (online course and exam)

  3. California Food Safety Manager Certification

    At least one certified food safety manager must be on duty or available during food truck operations under California Retail Food Code. Certification from an ANSI-accredited provider is required.

    Official government source

    $80–$150 (exam and course)1–2 days

City of San Diego / San Diego County

4 stops

  1. San Diego County Department of Environmental Health — Mobile Food Facility Permit

    All food trucks operating in San Diego County (including the City of San Diego) must obtain a Mobile Food Facility (MFF) permit from the San Diego County Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ). An inspection of the vehicle is required before the permit is issued. Permits must be renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $874–$1,162/year depending on facility type4–8 weeks after application, plan review, and inspection

  2. City of San Diego Business Tax Certificate

    Required for all businesses operating in the City of San Diego. Issued by the San Diego City Treasurer. Must be renewed annually.

    Official government source

    $34–$125 (based on gross receipts tier for new businesses)1–2 weeks (online application)

  3. Approved Commissary Agreement

    San Diego County requires all food trucks to operate from a licensed commissary for food preparation, storage, cleaning, and waste disposal. A signed commissary agreement must be on file with the DEHQ.

    Official government source

    $200–$700/month (commissary rental fees vary)Arranged before permit application

  4. San Diego Fire-Rescue Department Inspection (if using propane/open flame)

    Food trucks using propane, open flame, or grease-laden vapor-producing equipment must obtain approval from the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department. This includes review of fire suppression systems and LP gas installations.

    Official government source

    $100–$250 (inspection fee)2–4 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $1,200–$2,800 · 6–10 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections

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Official Sources

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