Food Truck Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL
Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Chicago / Cook County Requirements
5 requirementsCity of Chicago Mobile Food License
Required for all food trucks operating in Chicago. Issued by the Chicago Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). Food trucks are classified as 'Mobile Food Dispenser' (sells only prepackaged/unaltered food) or 'Mobile Food Preparer' (prepares food on the vehicle). Each classification has different requirements. Mobile Food Preparers must also operate from a licensed shared kitchen.
Chicago Department of Public Health — Food Sanitation Certificate
At least one person on each food truck must hold a Chicago Food Sanitation Manager Certificate. Requires completion of an approved food sanitation course and passing an exam administered by or approved by the Chicago Department of Public Health.
Illinois Department of Public Health — Retail Food Establishment License
Mobile food preparers in Illinois must also obtain a state-level Retail Food Establishment License from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This is in addition to the city license. Note: In Chicago, the CDPH administers inspections under state authority.
Shared Kitchen (Commissary) License
Chicago Mobile Food Preparers must operate from a city-licensed shared kitchen for food preparation, storage, restocking, and cleaning. The shared kitchen must hold its own City of Chicago license. A notarized agreement with the shared kitchen must be included in your license application.
Chicago Fire Department Inspection
Food trucks using open flame, propane, or grease-laden vapor-producing equipment must pass a Chicago Fire Prevention Bureau inspection. This is required as part of the BACP licensing process.
Illinois State Requirements
1 requirementIllinois Department of Revenue — Retailers' Occupation Tax Registration (Sales Tax)
Required to collect and remit Illinois sales tax on taxable food sales. Prepared food sold by food trucks is generally taxable in Illinois. Chicago's combined sales tax rate is 10.25%. Register free with the Illinois Department of Revenue.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.