Health permit

A health permit is the license from a state or local health department that allows a food truck, trailer or cart to sell food. It's usually issued after plan review and an inspection, and some places bill a yearly fee to keep it current. Maricopa County, Arizona, for one, charges an annual permit fee.

Who issues it depends on where you are. In Arizona, the first approval comes from the county where the commissary is located, and Maricopa County then issues its own permit card and placard. Before issuing it, Maricopa also asks for a commissary agreement, a route sheet, photos of the unit and a certified food protection manager.

Fire, business and parking permits are separate. Start with plan review, and read food truck design before you commit to a layout.