Food Truck Permit Requirements in Fort Worth, TX
Complete permit and license guide for starting a food truck in Fort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas.
Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .
Fort Worth / Tarrant County Requirements
3 requirementsTarrant County Public Health Mobile Food Unit Permit
Required for mobile food units operating in Fort Worth and unincorporated Tarrant County. Issued by Tarrant County Public Health Environmental Health Division. Must operate out of a licensed commissary (Central Preparation Facility) and report there daily. The permit is valid countywide within Tarrant County jurisdiction. Contact (817) 248-6299 to apply.
Fort Worth Mobile Vendor Certificate of Occupancy
Required for any vendor that occupies a specific location on a parcel or lot for more than one hour. Issued by Fort Worth Development Services. Must include proof of valid vehicle registration, motor vehicle operator's license, proof of vehicle liability insurance, and Texas sales tax permit. The vendor certificate of occupancy sticker must be displayed on the upper left rear of the unit.
Assumed Name (DBA) Certificate — Tarrant County
If operating under a business name other than your legal name, you must file an Assumed Name Certificate with the Tarrant County Clerk. Required to open a business bank account and commonly requested when applying for other permits.
Texas State Requirements
5 requirementsTexas Sales Tax Permit
Required for all businesses selling taxable goods in Texas. Prepared food sold by food trucks is taxable. Free to obtain from the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
Certified Food Manager Certification
At least one person on-site must hold a Certified Food Manager certification from an ANSI-accredited program (e.g., ServSafe) when handling TCS foods.
Texas Food Handler Card
All food employees must complete a DSHS-accredited food handler training program within 60 days of employment.
Commercial Vehicle Registration
Your food truck must be registered as a commercial vehicle with the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles.
Texas H.B. 2844 Statewide Mobile Food Vendor License (effective July 1, 2026)
Beginning July 1, 2026, all mobile food vendors in Texas must hold a single statewide license issued by DSHS, replacing or supplementing existing local permits including the Tarrant County permit. Vendors should apply once DSHS opens the application process.
Federal Requirements
1 requirementEIN (Employer Identification Number)
Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Free from the IRS.
Official Sources
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