Food Truck Permit Requirements in St. Louis, MO

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in St. Louis, St. Louis City County, Missouri.

$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: .

St. Louis / St. Louis City County Requirements

3 requirements
1

St. Louis City County / City of St. Louis — Mobile Food Unit Permit

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

City of St. Louis License Collector — Business License

St. Louis City is an independent city (not part of St. Louis County) and requires a Business License from the License Collector's office. 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

Missouri State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Missouri Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Missouri. The state rate is 4.225%; local rates vary by city and county. Register online with the Missouri Department of Revenue.

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source
2

Missouri Department of Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Missouri requires at least one Certified Food Protection Manager per food establishment. Must pass an ANSI-accredited exam.

$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

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