Food Truck Permit Requirements in Boston, MA

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts.

Updated 2026-03-13 8 stops $700–$1,800 est. 8-16 weeks
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

1 stop

  1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online)

State of Massachusetts

3 stops

  1. MA DPH Retail Food Establishment Permit

    The Massachusetts Department of Public Health issues retail food establishment permits for mobile food operations throughout the state. Requires plan review, facility inspection, and compliance with 105 CMR 590 (Massachusetts Food Code).

    Official government source

    $100-$300/year4-8 weeks

  2. MA Food Handler Certificate

    The Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires all food service workers to complete a state-approved food handler training program. At least one certified food protection manager (ServSafe or equivalent) must be on site during operations.

    Official government source

    $15-$1501-2 weeks

  3. MA Sales Tax Registration (DOR)

    Required by the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. Food truck operators selling taxable items must register with MA DOR. In Massachusetts, meals sold by food trucks are subject to the 6.25% state meals tax.

    Official government source

    Free1-2 weeks

City of Boston / Suffolk County

4 stops

  1. Boston Public Health Commission Mobile Food Vehicle Permit

    Issued by the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC), this is the primary permit required for all mobile food vehicles operating in Boston. The permit category and fee vary based on menu complexity and food handling risk. BPHC conducts a vehicle inspection and reviews food handling procedures.

    Official government source

    $200-$450/year3-6 weeks

  2. City of Boston Business Certificate

    A Business Certificate (DBA) is required from the Boston City Clerk for any business operating under a trade name in Boston. This is a foundational business registration required for all food truck operators.

    Official government source

    $65 (for 4 years)1-2 weeks

  3. Vending Location Permit

    Required from the City of Boston Public Works Department or relevant authority for operating at designated street vending locations. Boston has a very limited number of approved food truck vending spots, and competition is high. Permits may be issued through lottery or application.

    Official government source

    $100-$500/location/year4-12 weeks

  4. Commissary Kitchen Agreement

    Boston requires all mobile food vendors to maintain a written agreement with a licensed commissary kitchen that is approved by the Boston Public Health Commission. The commissary is used for food prep, cleaning, restocking, and vehicle storage. Commissary must be inspected and approved.

    Official government source

    $400-$1,200/month (commissary rental)1-3 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $700–$1,800 · 8-16 weeks

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Official Sources

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