Food Truck Permit Requirements in Hilo, HI
Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Hilo, Hawaii County, Hawaii.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Hilo / Hawaii County Requirements
3 requirementsHawaii County / City of Hilo — Mobile Food Unit Permit
All food trucks operating in Hilo 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.
County of Hawaii Finance Department — Business License
Hilo (Hawaii County) requires a County business registration and applicable permits. Contact the County Finance Department for business license requirements. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.
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.
Hawaii State Requirements
2 requirementsHawaii Department of Taxation — General Excise Tax License
Hawaii does not have a traditional sales tax but requires all businesses to pay a General Excise Tax (GET) on gross income from business activities. The GET rate is 4% (4.5% in Honolulu). All businesses must register for a GET license with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.
Hawaii Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification
Hawaii requires at least one certified food safety manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam such as ServSafe.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.