Food Truck Permit Requirements in Indianapolis, IN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.

$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: .

Indianapolis / Marion County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Marion County / City of Indianapolis — Mobile Food Unit Permit

All food trucks operating in Indianapolis must obtain a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the local health department (Marion County or City of Indianapolis Environmental Health). 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

Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services — Business License

Indianapolis (Marion County) requires a Commercial Zoning Certificate and may require a Business License depending on the business type. 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

Indiana State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Indiana Department of Revenue — Registered Retail Merchant Certificate

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in Indiana. Indiana charges a flat 7% state sales tax with no additional local sales tax. Register online via INBiz.

$25 one-time registration feeImmediate (online via INBiz)
Official government source
2

Indiana Department of Health — Certified Food Handler Requirement

Indiana requires all food establishments to have at least one certified food handler. Certification must be from an ANSI-accredited provider.

$15–$20 per personSame day (online)
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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