1. Business license: All businesses, including food trailers, in Florida must have a business license. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) issues business licenses. Depending on the county you operate in, the license varies in price.
2. Food Service License: Any company that prepares and serves food to the general public must have a food service license. The food trailer must be inspected before the license may be approved by the DBPR. The licensing fee is determined on the size of the food trailer and the county in which it is used.
3. Mobile Food Dispensing Vehicle (MFDV) Permit: Any food trailer that runs in Florida needs an MFDV permit. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) issues the permit, which needs to be approved after a food trailer inspection. The size of the food trailer and the county in which you operate determine how much the permit will cost.
4. Fire Inspection: All food trailers in Florida are required to undergo a fire inspection. The local fire department inspects the food trailer to make sure it complies with regulations on fire safety. Depending on the county you operate in, different counties have different inspection fees.
Food trailers that serve alcohol must also obtain a beer and wine license in addition to the aforementioned licenses. Depending on the county you operate in in Florida, the time it takes to get a beer and wine license can change. But getting a license normally takes 30-45 days.
A 2COP license in Florida costs about $400. However, the price can differ based on the county in where you operate. A food trailer may only sell beer and wine with a 2COP license. A different kind of license is required if you wish to offer alcohol.
There is a cottage food law in Florida that permits people to sell specific homemade food items straight from their kitchens. Food trailers, however, are exempt from this restriction. The above-mentioned permits and licenses must be obtained in order to sell food out of a food trailer.
In conclusion, it can be difficult to acquire the required permits and licenses for running a food trailer in Florida. To ensure the success of your food business, it is crucial to understand the requirements in your county and adhere to all applicable legislation.