Food Truck Permit Requirements in Billings, MT

Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Billings, Yellowstone County, Montana.

$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: .

Billings / Yellowstone County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Yellowstone County / City of Billings — Mobile Food Unit Permit

All food trucks operating in Billings must obtain a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the local health department. 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 Billings City Clerk — Business License

Billings requires a Business License for regulated businesses operating within city limits. The City Clerk's office processes applications. 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

Montana State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Montana — No Sales Tax

Montana has no state or local sales tax. Businesses do not need a sales tax permit. However, businesses must register with the Montana Department of Revenue for applicable business taxes (e.g., withholding, corporate income tax if applicable).

Free (business registration)Immediate (online via TransAction Portal)
Official government source
2

Montana Department of Public Health — Food Safety Manager Certification

Montana requires at least one certified food safety 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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