Food & Retail Truck Vending

How Do I Apply for a Food & Retail Truck Permit?

*Please Note: You must apply for a permit using a computer or laptop. Smartphones will not work.

You can apply for a permit online using the link found under the Resources sidebar or the green button below.
Please see the Food & Retail Truck Application Guide if you have questions while completing the application.
After Planning has reviewed and approved your application, you will need to apply for a City of Arvada Business License with the Finance department.
Once Finance issues a business license, you will need to pay the permit fee prior to your permit being issued. You must keep a copy of your permit on the food or retail truck while you are operating in the City of Arvada.

County Health Department Certification (Food Truck Permit only)
A City of Arvada Business License
If on private property:
- Written permission from a property owner
If you are locating within a City park, public space, or public right-of-way (streets):
- Written permission from the applicable City department
- Liability insurance
- If you are a food or retail truck that has been hired to be a part of a tournament at an athletic field, approval for the City Parks Department is required before an application will be accepted.

If you are selling food or retail from a readily movable wheeled, motorized vehicle designed and equipped to serve food or retail.
If you are selling food or items from a wheeled, non-motorized structure designed and equipped to serve food, and towed by a motorized vehicle

If you operate for less than 15 consecutive minutes at any specific site (such as an ice cream truck)
If you are operating as part of an approved Special Event Permit in coordination with the event planner

On private property in all zoning districts.
In any park or public space with approval of the owner or government entity.
In a public street right-of-way when the street is closed to vehicular traffic as part of a Special Event Permit.
In a public street right-of-way with authorization from the City.

On undeveloped property with unoccupied structures or unpaved surfaces.
Within 50 feet of any residential use in a residential or mixed-use zone district with residential units on the ground floor.
In any location that would obstruct the visibility of motorists.
In any location that would obstruct parking lot circulation or access to a public street, alley, or sidewalk.