PASO A PASO

Operate a mobile food facility on a curbside

Apply to set up your mobile food facility on a public right-of-way like a sidewalk or alley.

1

Set up your business licenses

Before you apply for operating permits, you should

  • File your business name.
  • Get a tax ID.
  • Register the commissary address as your business address.
  • Obtain a business registration from the Tax Collector.
2

Confirm construction requirements

Verify your mobile food facility meets standards after construction is complete.

View construction requirements for mobile food facilities.

3

Apply for your health permit

Costo:.

Application fee varies.

To apply for a health permit to operate, provide:

  • Proof of safety requirements
    • food safety certifications
    • fire department inspection
  • Commissary and restroom verification 

A checklist and all the forms you need are included in the packet. 

Mobile Food Facility (MFF) Application Checklist

4

Get a vehicle inspection

Email mobilefood@sfdph.org to schedule a vehicle inspection for final permit approval.

5

Pay your license fee

You will pay a pro-rated annual license fee with the City's Treasurer and Tax Collector office.

Pay license fee. 

6

Get ready to open

Once you have paid your fees, you will get a:

  • Health permit to operate

Make sure you give a copy of your certificate to the Department of Public Works to finalize your permit.