Dallas GuideLast verified: January 2026

Dallas Food Truck Permit Guide

Dallas County's single permit covers all cities in the county—but you only have 180 days to pass inspection once you apply.

Includes complete Dallas permit checklists and timeline planner

County-Wide
Single Permit
180 Days
Application Validity
Appointment
Required
July 2026
State System

Why Dallas Is Easier (and Harder)

The good news: one county permit covers all Dallas County cities. The challenge: your application expires after 180 days if you haven't passed inspection.

Our Texas Kit includes the complete Dallas timeline planner.

Dallas Food Truck Permits Overview

Here's what you'll need. Our kit includes the complete checklist.

Dallas County MFU Permit

Contact for fees

Dallas County HHS

Single permit covers all cities in Dallas County. Appointment required.

Food Handler Certificate

$7–$15

DSHS-accredited provider

Required for all employees. Valid for 2 years.

Food Manager Certificate

$100–$150

Accredited provider

Managers must hold certification in addition to food handler.

Commissary Agreement

$200–$500/month

Verified by Dallas County

Must use a licensed commissary for storage and preparation.

Fire Safety Inspection

Varies

Local Fire Department

Required at time of health inspection for cooking equipment compliance.

Application Fee

Valid 180 days

Dallas County HHS

Applications expire after 180 days if inspection not passed.

The Texas Kit includes: Complete Dallas permit checklist, MFU application guide, and 180-day timeline planner.

What Makes Dallas Different

These are the things that trip up most new Dallas food truck operators.

County-Wide Coverage

One Dallas County permit covers Dallas, Irving, Plano, Garland, and other county cities. No separate city permits needed.

Appointment Required

You must schedule an appointment for permitting. Walk-ins are not accepted. Specific office hours apply.

180-Day Application Window

Your application expires if you don't pass inspection within 180 days. You'd have to reapply and pay again.

July 2026 State Transition

Texas is implementing a statewide permit system. Dallas County permits will eventually work across the state.

The Texas Kit includes: County coverage map, appointment scheduling guide, and inspection preparation checklist.

Dallas Food Truck Permit FAQ

Do I need separate permits for each Dallas city?

No. Dallas County HHS covers all cities in the county with one permit. You still must comply with local zoning. Our kit explains what's covered.

How do I schedule a Dallas County inspection?

Download the application, complete it, then call to schedule an appointment. Specific hours apply. Our kit includes the complete scheduling process.

What happens if I don't pass inspection within 180 days?

You'll need to reapply and pay new fees. Plan your timeline carefully. Our kit includes a Dallas-specific timeline planner.

What certifications do I need?

All employees need food handler certificates. Managers need additional food manager certification. Our kit includes certification tracking.

What's changing in 2026?

Texas is implementing a statewide permit system starting July 2026. Our kit will be updated as new guidelines are released.

What temperature requirements apply?

Dallas has specific cold and hot holding requirements. These are checked during inspection. Our kit includes the temperature compliance checklist.

Get the Complete Dallas Permit Roadmap

This page shows you what permits you need. The Texas Kit shows you exactly how to get them—and how to pass inspection within 180 days.

$97

One-time payment • Includes complete Dallas guides

14-Day Money-Back Guarantee