How to open a mobile food business in California: Checklist for 2025
Learn how to open a mobile food business in California, including food trucks, catering vans, food carts, mobile bakeries, coffee carts, BBQ trailers, dessert trucks, smoothie stands, ice cream trucks, and pop-up food vendors.
Starting a mobile food business in California—whether a food truck, catering van, mobile bakery, or food cart—requires careful planning and compliance with state, federal, and local laws. This guide outlines the essential steps to legally establish your business.
1. Create a Business Plan
A solid business plan is the foundation of your mobile food business. Outline your concept, target market, menu, pricing, and operational strategy. While not legally required, a business plan helps secure funding and ensures compliance with regulations.
2. Choose a Legal Business Structure
Decide on your business structure:
- Sole Proprietorship: Easiest to start but lacks liability protection.
- Partnership: Suitable for co-owned businesses.
- Limited Liability Company (LLC): Protects personal assets and offers tax flexibility.
- Corporation: Ideal for large-scale businesses or those seeking investors.
If forming an LLC, corporation, or partnership, you must file with the California Secretary of State (SOS): SOS Forms and Fees
3. Register Your Business Name
If operating under a name different from your legal name or entity name, register a Fictitious Business Name (DBA) with your county.
4. Obtain Federal and State Tax IDs
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN): Required for tax filing and hiring employees. Apply for EIN
- California Franchise Tax Board (FTB): Register for state income tax. FTB Business Information
5. Secure Necessary Licenses and Permits
State-Level Requirements:
- Seller’s Permit: Required to sell taxable items. CDTFA Seller’s Permit Info
- Food Safety Certification: At least one employee must be food safety certified, and others must have Food Handler Cards. California Food Safety Program
- Commercial Modular Classification: Mobile food vehicles may require classification by the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). HCD Requirements
Local-Level Requirements:
- Business License: Required by your city or county.
- Zoning and Use Permit: Check local planning departments for location-specific regulations.
- Health Permit: Issued by county environmental health departments.
- Fire Permit: Some jurisdictions require a fire inspection and permit.
- Insurance: General liability insurance may be required by your city or county.
6. Comply with Employment Laws (If Hiring)
- Register with the EDD: Employers must file with the Employment Development Department (EDD). EDD Employer Registration
- Wages and Working Conditions: Follow state labor laws. DIR Wage Laws
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required for businesses with employees. Workers’ Compensation Information
7. Understand Proposition 65
California’s Proposition 65 requires businesses to warn customers if products contain chemicals linked to health risks. Prop 65 Information
8. Obtain Insurance
- General Liability Insurance: Covers accidents and liability.
- Workers’ Compensation Insurance: Required if hiring employees.
- Property Insurance: Covers damage to your equipment or vehicle.
9. Pass Inspections
- Health Department Inspection: Ensures food safety compliance.
- Fire Department Inspection: Verifies compliance with fire safety regulations.
10. Utilize Resources
- Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): Free guidance for small businesses. Find an SBDC Near You
- CalGOLD: Identifies local, state, and federal permit requirements. CalGOLD Permit Assistance
By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the legal process of starting a mobile food business in California. For personalized guidance, consult a lawyer or your local SBDC.
Related Guides
Pat Sharyon
Pat Sharyon
Pat Sharyon
