Food Truck Permits and Licenses

What Permits and Licenses do You Need to Operate a Food Truck in Portland?

Portland is one of the most food truck–friendly cities in the country, and the city works hard to ensure vendors can safely operate across streets, sidewalks, parks, and private lots. If you want to start a food truck in Portland, you’ll need to complete several steps and be approved for the following key permits and licenses:

City of Portland Business License:
Also known as a Business Tax Account, this is your foundational license that officially registers your business with the City of Portland. It’s how the city tracks business activity and collects local taxes. If your gross revenue is under $50,000 annually, your license is free, but you still need to file.

Multnomah County Food Service Permit:
If you plan to prepare or sell food to the public, you MUST pass a health department inspection before operating. Food trucks must submit a Plan Review Packet that includes your site layout, menu, equipment details, and waste disposal plan. All staff must hold valid Oregon Food Handler Cards, and your truck will be classified by food preparation level (Class I–IV). You'll need to pass an initial inspection before opening.The Plan Review fee is approximately $595, and the annual license ranges from $570–$690, depending on your unit class.

Street Vending Permit (PBOT):

If you want to vend on public streets or sidewalks in Portland, you must get a permit from the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT). As of 2025, PBOT runs a food truck pilot program in designated zones throughout the city. Vending locations are assigned via Suburban Events, and all vendors must maintain clear pedestrian access and meet fire and health standards. You can contact PBOT at [email protected] or 503‑823‑4026 for more information. This is part of a two-year pilot program currently running through 2025.

Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Permit:
If your food truck will operate inside a public park, you’ll need a separate permit from PP&R. These permits are location-specific and often have additional requirements such as using drip pans and supplying your generator (electrical hookups are not provided). Approval must be secured before operation.

Propane & Fire Safety Permit (Portland Fire & Rescue):
If your cart or truck uses propane or open flames, you’ll need to comply with fire safety regulations. This includes applying for an annual Propane Device Permit (approx. $35), equipping your truck with appropriate fire extinguishers (2A-10BC or K-Class), installing a suppression hood system, and maintaining 5 feet of clearance between units. Carbon monoxide detectors are also recommended.

Zoning, Plumbing, and Electrical Permits (Bureau of Development Services – BDS):
If your cart or truck will be located on private property or you're making any structural changes, you'll need to check in with the Bureau of Development Services. Plumbing and electrical work must be performed by licensed contractors, and vehicles longer than 16 feet may require additional approvals. Zoning must allow for commercial food service at your chosen location.

Environmental Services – Grease & Wastewater (For Food Pods):
If you’re joining a food pod (two or more carts on a lot), there are additional infrastructure requirements. Each pod must have a shared grease interceptor, a dump station, and designated trash/recycling areas. You’ll also need to pay a System Development Charge (SDC), which is approximately $4,979 per cart as of the most recent fiscal year. This charge only applies to vendors in food pods. Solo trucks on their lots are not subject to the SDC.

Other Requirements You Should Know

Commissary Kitchen Contract:
If your food truck doesn’t have a 3-compartment sink or on-board wastewater tank, you’ll need to use a licensed commissary kitchen and provide documentation of your contract.

Business Insurance:
General liability insurance is required when working with city agencies like PBOT and PP&R.

Unattended Vehicles on Public Property:
Food trucks and carts may not be left unattended on public property for more than 30 minutes at a time. If you need to store your cart, you must do so off-site.

What are the Requirements for Obtaining Food Truck Permits and Licenses?

Now that you know what types of permits and licenses you’ll need to start a food truck in Portland, let’s take a look at the requirements for actually obtaining them. To get started, you’ll need:

Be at least 18 years old

 

A valid government-issued photo ID

 

Vehicle registration through the Oregon DMV (if operating a motorized truck)

 

A completed Mobile Food Facility Plan Review Packet from Multnomah County Environmental Health

 

Commissary Kitchen agreement (required if your unit lacks a 3-compartment sink or wastewater system)

 

Oregon Food Handler Cards for all staff

 

Fire & propane safety documentation (if using open flame or propane appliances)

 

If you’re registering your business as an LLC or corporation, you’ll also need to submit Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation, which can be filed through the Oregon Secretary of State

 

How Much Do Food Truck Permits and Licenses Cost?

While Portland is known for being affordable for food entrepreneurs, startup costs can still add up. Below is a breakdown of typical first-year costs for permits and licensing:

Estimated First-Year Startup Total: ~$7,000–$15,000+

Costs vary based on cart type, location, and cooking method. Higher totals may apply if you’re joining a pod.

Where Can I Find More Information?

The City of Portland and Multnomah County offer a number of helpful resources to guide new mobile food vendors. Here are a few key places to start:

Multnomah County Environmental Health – Food Carts: https://multco.us/services/food-carts

 

City of Portland Business License Info: https://www.portland.gov/revenue/business-tax

 

Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) – Street Vending: https://www.portland.gov/transportation/business/toolkit/food-vending

 

Portland Parks & Recreation Permits: https://www.portland.gov/parks/permits

 

Oregon Secretary of State – Business Registry: https://sos.oregon.gov/business

 

Portland Fire & Rescue: https://www.portland.gov/fire

 

Portland Bureau of Development Services: https://www.portland.gov/bds

 

It’s also a good idea to contact Portland Fire & Rescue and the Bureau of Development Services early in the process to make sure your cart meets zoning, safety, and fire code standards.

Once your paperwork is in order, you’ll be ready to roll out your food truck and serve Portland’s hungry crowds. Need support navigating the permitting process? Portland’s Small Business Empowerment Program can help BIPOC and ADA-recognized entrepreneurs with free guidance, resources, and permit assistance.

Partnering with PDXFTA is a great way to connect with the local food truck community and tap into catering opportunities, festivals, and events all around the Portland metro area.