Food Truck Permit

Required for operating a mobile food vending unit in Wisconsin municipalities. Food trucks must comply with both state food safety regulations (DATCP) and local municipal ordinances that govern where, when, and how food trucks can operate. Requirements vary significantly between municipalities — some are food truck-friendly, while others impose heavy restrictions.

Verified 2026-02-01
Typical Fee Range
$100–$1,000
annual
Typical Timeline
2–6 weeks
From application to approval
Inspection Required
Yes
One or more inspections required
Jurisdiction Level
Municipal
Issuing authority level

When Is a Food Truck Permit Required?

  • Operating a food truck on public or private property
  • Operating a food cart or mobile vending unit
  • Catering from a mobile unit at events

When Is a Food Truck Permit NOT Required?

  • Ice cream trucks in some municipalities (separate vendor license)
  • Temporary food stands at permitted special events (separate event permit)

Related Permits You May Also Need

Food Dealer License
Required for any establishment that prepares, serves, or sells food to the public in Wisconsin. Regulated under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 97 and DATCP (Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection) rules. Restaurants, grocery stores, bakeries, caterers, and food manufacturers all need a food dealer license. Municipal health departments conduct inspections; state licensing is through DATCP.
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General Business License
Required for operating most types of businesses within a Wisconsin municipality. The general business license (sometimes called a business registration or business tax certificate) ensures that the business complies with local zoning, building, fire, and health codes. Requirements and fees vary by municipality — not all Wisconsin cities require a general business license.
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Right-of-Way Occupancy Permit
Required for temporarily or permanently occupying, obstructing, or placing objects within the public right-of-way in Wisconsin. Covers dumpster placement, construction staging, scaffolding, temporary lane closures, and any activity that affects the public right-of-way. The permit ensures public safety, accessibility, and traffic management during the occupation.
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Required Licenses

The following professional licenses may be required to obtain or work under this permit type in Wisconsin.

Food Truck Permit Fees by Municipality

Fee and processing time data for food truck permit permits across Wisconsin municipalities. Click any jurisdiction for complete details including application links and requirements.

JurisdictionFeeProcessing TimeStatus
City of Milwaukee$2752-3 weeksCurrent
City of Madison$2502-3 weeksCurrent

Data note: Fees are sourced from official municipal fee schedules and verified periodically. Actual fees may vary based on project valuation and scope. Click any jurisdiction for the most current data and direct application links.

Frequently Asked Questions — Food Truck Permit

How do I start a food truck business in Wisconsin?

You need a state mobile food establishment license from DATCP, a local food dealer license, a municipal food truck/mobile vendor permit, and appropriate vehicle registration. Your truck must pass a health inspection. Each municipality you operate in may require its own permit, making multi-city operations more complex.

Can food trucks park anywhere in Wisconsin?

No. Wisconsin municipalities regulate where food trucks can operate. Most cities designate specific zones or require minimum distances from brick-and-mortar restaurants. Some cities require food trucks to have a commissary kitchen for prep and cleaning. Parking on public streets may require a right-of-way permit.

For Professionals

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