Food Truck Permit Requirements in Lexington, KY

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Lexington, Fayette County, Kentucky.

$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: .

Lexington / Fayette County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Fayette County / City of Lexington — Mobile Food Unit Permit

All food trucks operating in Lexington must obtain a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the local health department (Fayette County or City of Lexington 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

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government — Revenue Division — Business License

Lexington (Fayette Urban County) requires an Occupational License for all businesses. The Revenue Division issues and renews annual licenses based on business type and payroll. 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

Kentucky State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Kentucky Department of Revenue — Sales and Use Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or certain services in Kentucky. Kentucky charges a flat 6% state sales tax with no local sales taxes (most transactions). Certain services including telecommunications, digital products, and some repair services are also taxable. Register online with the Kentucky Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online via Kentucky One Stop Business Portal)
Official government source
2

Kentucky Department of Public Health — Food Safety Certified Manager Requirement

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

$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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