San Diego's public letter grading system means your inspection results are visible to customers. Here's what you need to know.
Includes San Diego permit checklist and inspection prep guide
Unlike most California cities, San Diego publicly displays letter grades on food trucks. A poor grade is visible to every customer. Knowing what inspectors look for is critical.
Our California Kit includes the complete San Diego inspection prep guide.
Here's what you'll need. Our kit includes the complete checklist.
Varies by complexity
San Diego County DEH
Required Mobile Food Facility permit. Fee based on operation type.
$50–$200/year
City of San Diego
Required for operating within San Diego city limits.
Varies
City Development Services
City-level permit in addition to county health permit.
$15 max (CA law)
County-authorized provider
Required for all food handlers. California caps the cost.
$200–$600/month
Verified by DEH
Must operate from an approved commissary kitchen.
$100–$250
San Diego Fire-Rescue
Required if using propane or open flame equipment.
The California Kit includes: Complete San Diego permit checklist, DEH application guide, and required documents list.
These are the things that trip up most new San Diego food truck operators.
San Diego displays A/B/C grades on food trucks. Your grade is public and affects your business. Maintaining an A requires knowing exactly what inspectors look for.
Beach communities have different vending restrictions than inland areas. Popular spots like Pacific Beach have specific regulations.
San Diego enforces strict 500-foot school distance rules. Your routes need to account for school locations and hours.
The good news: your SD County permit works throughout the county, making it easier to operate in multiple cities.
The California Kit includes: Grading system breakdown, coastal vending rules, and inspection preparation checklist.
You need permits from both San Diego County DEH and the City. The process involves health permits, business registration, and inspections. Our California Kit includes the complete San Diego checklist.
Since 2012, San Diego requires letter grades (A/B/C) for food trucks. Your grade is based on health inspections and must be displayed publicly. Our kit includes the inspection prep guide to maintain your A.
Beach areas have specific vending restrictions. Your county permit is valid, but coastal communities have additional rules. Our kit includes the coastal vending guidelines.
San Diego County conducts regular inspections focusing on foodborne illness prevention. Your inspection history affects your letter grade. Our kit helps you stay prepared.
Yes. Everyone who handles food needs a valid food handler card. California law caps the cost at $15. Our kit includes certification tracking.
San Diego County DEH maintains a list of approved commissaries. Our kit includes a commissary evaluation checklist to help you choose the right one.
This page shows you what permits you need. The California Kit shows you exactly how to get them—and how to maintain your A grade.
One-time payment • Includes complete SD guides
14-Day Money-Back Guarantee