Skip Main Navigation
Skip to Content
Read More in This Topic

Food Truck Permit

When do you need a Food Truck Permit?

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

When DON’T you need a Food Truck Permit?

  • 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

Where are food trucks allowed?

  • On private property in the B-1, B-2, B-4, PUD-BP, commercial areas of PUD-BPR, NC-C/OF, NC-I/OF, NC-MU-A, NC-MU-B, NC-MU-C, all Olde Town Zoning Subdistricts, and all CC Zoning Subdistricts
  • In a public street right-of-way (regardless of zoning district) when the street is closed to vehicular traffic as part of a Special Event Permit
  • In a public street right-of-way (regardless of zoning district) as part of a gathering of two or more food trucks with authorization from the the Community Development Director

Where AREN’T food trucks allowed?

  • On private property in any zone districts not listed above
  • On undeveloped property with unoccupied structures or unpaved surfaces
  • Within 200 feet of any permanent eating and drinking establishment
  • Within 50 feet of any residential zone district (except as otherwise permitted)
  • In any location that would obstruct the visibility of motorists
  • In any public park without a special event permit
  • In any location that would obstruct parking lot circulation or access to a public street, alley, or sidewalk

When can food trucks operate?

  • Food trucks can operate 7 days a week from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

What’s required for a permit?

  • A site plan showing the property to be used and proposed location of the food truck (see example site plan)
  • Trash disposal plan (preferably an agreement with a commissary)
  • County Health Department Certification
  • A City of Arvada Business Licence
  • If on private property:
    • Written permission from a property owner
  • If within a City park, public space, or public right-of-way:
    • Written permission from the applicable City department
    • Liability insurance

How much does a permit cost and how long is the permit good for?

  • There is a $55 annual fee
  • You will need to reapply for a new permit each year

Contact Information

  • Main Telephone Number:
    720-898-7435
  • Street Address:
    8101 Ralston Road, Arvada, CO 80002