Permits and Licenses You Need to Start a Food Truck Business
A guide to catering in portland, oregon in 2025
Portland is one of the most food truck–friendly cities in the country, and the city works hard to ensure vendors can safely operate across streets, sidewalks, parks, and private lots. If you want to start a food truck in Portland, you’ll need to complete several steps and be approved for the following key permits and licenses:
City of Portland Business License
Also known as a Business Tax Account, this is your foundational license that officially registers your business with the City of Portland. It’s how the city tracks business activity and collects local taxes. If your gross revenue is under $50,000 annually, your license is free, but you still need to file.
Multnomah County Food Service Permit
If you plan to prepare or sell food to the public, you MUST pass a health department inspection before operating. Food trucks must submit a Plan Review Packet that includes your site layout, menu, equipment details, and waste disposal plan. All staff must hold valid Oregon Food Handler Cards, and your truck will be classified by food preparation level (Class I–IV).
You'll need to pass an initial inspection before opening.The Plan Review fee is approximately $595, and the annual license ranges from $570–$690, depending on your unit class.
Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) Permit
If your cart or truck will be located on private property or you're making any structural changes, you'll need to check in with the Bureau of Development Services. Plumbing and electrical work must be performed by licensed contractors, and vehicles longer than 16 feet may require additional approvals. Zoning must allow for commercial food service at your chosen location.
Environmental Services – Grease & Wastewater (For Food Pods)
If you’re joining a food pod (two or more carts on a lot), there are additional infrastructure requirements. Each pod must have a shared grease interceptor, a dump station, and designated trash/recycling areas.
You’ll also need to pay a System Development Charge (SDC), which is approximately $4,979 per cart as of the most recent fiscal year. This charge only applies to vendors in food pods. Solo trucks on their lots are not subject to the SDC.
What are the Requirements for Obtaining Food Truck Permits and Licenses?
With the necessary permits and licenses outlined, the next stage is obtaining them. To begin, you should meet the following requirements:
1. Be at least 18 years old
2. Have a valid government-issued photo ID
3. Secure vehicle registration through the Oregon DMV (if operating a motorized truck)
4. Have a completed Mobile Food Facility Plan Review Packet from Multnomah County Environmental Health
5. Have a commissary Kitchen agreement (required if your unit lacks a 3-compartment sink or wastewater system)
6. Secure Oregon Food Handler Cards for all staff
7. Possess Fire & propane safety documentation (if using open flame or propane appliances)
If you’re registering your business as an LLC or corporation, you’ll also need to submit Articles of Organization (LLC) or Articles of Incorporation, which can be filed through the Oregon Secretary of State
How Much Do Food Truck Permits and Licenses Cost?
Where Can I Find More Information?
The City of Portland and Multnomah County provide several helpful resources to guide new mobile food vendors. Here are a few key places to start:
Multnomah County Environmental Health – Food Carts: https://multco.us/services/food-carts
City of Portland Business License Info: https://www.portland.gov/revenue/business-tax
Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) – Street Vending: https://www.portland.gov/transportation/business/toolkit/food-vending
Portland Parks & Recreation Permits: https://www.portland.gov/parks/permits
Oregon Secretary of State – Business Registry: https://sos.oregon.gov/business
Portland Fire & Rescue: https://www.portland.gov/fire
Portland Bureau of Development Services: https://www.portland.gov/bds
It’s also a good idea to contact Portland Fire & Rescue and the Bureau of Development Services early in the process to make sure your cart meets zoning, safety, and fire code standards.
Once your paperwork is in order, you’ll be ready to roll out your food truck and serve Portland’s hungry crowds.
Need support navigating the permitting process? Portland’s Small Business Empowerment Program can help BIPOC and ADA-recognized entrepreneurs with free guidance, resources, and permit assistance.
Partnering with PDXFTA is a great way to connect with the local food truck community and tap into catering opportunities, as well as festivals and events throughout the Portland metro area.
