Food Truck Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Minneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Minneapolis / Hennepin County Requirements
4 requirementsHennepin County Environmental Health Mobile Food Establishment License
Hennepin County Environmental Health issues licenses for mobile food establishments operating in Hennepin County. The fee is risk-based — higher-risk operations (cooking raw proteins, temperature control) pay more. A commissary agreement with a licensed kitchen is required, and annual inspections are conducted.
City of Minneapolis Food Vehicle License
The City of Minneapolis Department of Safety & Inspections (DSI) requires a separate Food Vehicle License for food trucks operating within Minneapolis city limits. This is in addition to the Hennepin County license. The license includes a vehicle inspection and must be renewed annually.
Commissary Agreement
Minneapolis and Hennepin County require mobile food operators to use a licensed commissary kitchen for food preparation, storage, and equipment cleaning. A signed commissary agreement must be submitted with your license application. Commissary kitchen rentals typically cost $15–$30/hour.
Vending Location Permits
To operate on Minneapolis public streets, sidewalks, or parks, food trucks need vending location permits from the City of Minneapolis. Private property locations require written permission from property owners. The city has designated food truck zones downtown and in other high-traffic areas.
Minnesota State Requirements
3 requirementsMinnesota Secretary of State Business Registration
All formal business entities (LLC, corporation) operating in Minnesota must register with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Filing as an LLC costs approximately $155 and provides personal liability protection for the business owner.
Minnesota Department of Revenue Sales Tax License
Food trucks in Minnesota must register for a sales tax license with the Minnesota Department of Revenue. Most prepared food sold by food trucks is subject to Minnesota sales tax (currently 6.875% state rate plus local taxes). Registration is free but the license must be maintained as long as you make taxable sales.
Minnesota Department of Agriculture Food Handler Requirements
Food truck operators in Minnesota must ensure compliance with Minnesota Department of Agriculture food safety requirements for mobile food units, including food safety manager certification. At least one person at the food truck must hold a certified food protection manager certification.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
Related Guides
Other business types in Minneapolis, MN
- Auto Repair Shop Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
- Barber Shop Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
- Bookkeeping Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
- Catering Business Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
- Cleaning Service Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN
- Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Minneapolis, MN