Permits You Need to Start a Food Truck in Denver, CO
9 permits identified. Last verified: February 2026.
Quick answer
Starting a food truck in Denver requires 9 permits costing $600-$1,000 in the first year (not including commissary rental). The Retail Food Mobile License ($300-$580) is the primary permit. A commissary agreement with an approved commercial kitchen is mandatory. Fire department inspection must pass before the health license is issued.
Starting a food truck in Denver is more affordable than a brick-and-mortar restaurant, but the permitting process still involves multiple agencies. The Denver Department of Excise and Licenses is your primary point of contact for the mobile food vendor license.
A commissary agreement is one of the most important requirements. You must operate from an approved commercial kitchen for food preparation and storage, and your commissary must be documented with your license application.
The fire department inspection is a critical step — your truck must pass before you can receive your health license. Contact DFDMobiles@denvergov.org to schedule the fire suppression inspection early in your process.
Required permits and licenses
Retail Food Mobile License
Primary operating license for mobile food vendors. Fee tiered by food processes (cooking, reheating, etc.). Requires vehicle inspection, commissary agreement, and fire department approval.
Food Handler Certificate
All food handlers must complete an approved food safety course. Denver does not require a separate Certified Food Protection Manager.
Fire Safety Operational Permit
Propane/LPG operational permit required for any amount of propane use. Automatic fire suppression system mandatory for greasy cooking. Class K extinguisher required.
Vehicle Health Inspection
Truck must have 3-compartment sink, handwash station, proper ventilation, and restrained cooking appliances. Inspected twice per year (unannounced).
Colorado Sales Tax License
Required to collect and remit Colorado sales tax. Combined rate approximately 8.81% in Denver. Apply via Revenue Online portal.
Commissary Agreement
Must operate from an approved commercial kitchen for food prep and storage. Signed Commissary Affidavit required with license application.
Zoning/Parking Permit
Required for operating on private property. Must maintain 10 ft. separation from other food trucks. Allowed in commercial and industrial zones.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Federal tax ID required for LLCs, partnerships, or any business with employees.
Colorado LLC Registration
LLC formation protects personal assets from business liability. Particularly important for food trucks due to food safety and vehicle accident risks.
Disclaimer: This information is sourced from official government records and verified as of February 2026. Permit requirements can change. Always confirm with the issuing agency before making business decisions. This is not legal advice.
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