Food Truck Permit Requirements in Dover, DE

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Dover, Kent County, Delaware.

$600 -- $1500 3–6 weeks to obtain all permits and pass inspections 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Dover / Kent County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Kent County / City of Dover — Mobile Food Unit Permit

All food trucks operating in Dover must obtain a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the local health department. The truck undergoes an inspection before the permit is issued. Annual renewal required.

$250–$450/year2–4 weeks after application and inspection
Official government source
2

City of Dover Planning and Inspections Department — Business License

Dover requires a Certificate of Occupancy and applicable business permits for businesses operating within city limits. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
3

Commissary Agreement

Most jurisdictions require mobile food units to operate from an approved commissary — a licensed commercial kitchen for food prep, storage, and cleaning. A signed commissary agreement must be submitted with the permit application.

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

Delaware State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Delaware — No Sales Tax

Delaware has no state or local sales tax. Instead, Delaware levies a Gross Receipts Tax on the seller of goods or provider of services, based on total receipts. Register with the Delaware Division of Revenue.

Free (gross receipts tax registration)Immediate (online)
Official government source
2

Delaware Division of Public Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Delaware requires at least one certified food protection manager per food establishment. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider.

$80–$1501–2 days
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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