Austin's food trailer capital has new requirements—online-only applications and mandatory fire inspections. Plus, state takes over in June 2026.
Includes complete Austin permit checklists and portal guide
Austin now requires all applications through their new online portal—no more email. Plus, fire inspections became mandatory in 2023. And the state takes over permitting in June 2026.
Our Texas Kit includes the complete updated Austin process.
Here's what you'll need. Our kit includes the complete checklist.
New fees Oct 2025
Austin Public Health
Required permit. Austin issues permits until June 30, 2026, then state takes over.
Per fee schedule
Austin Fire Department
Mandatory for trucks with propane or electric appliances producing smoke/grease vapors.
$100–$150
City of Austin
Original certificate must be on unit at all times.
$7–$15
City of Austin Health Dept
Required for all employees not holding manager certificate.
$200–$600/month
Verified by Austin Public Health
Must operate from a licensed commissary. Austin has many trailer park options.
Updated Oct 2025
Austin Fire Department
Separate fire fee in addition to inspection. New fees effective October 2025.
The Texas Kit includes: Complete Austin permit checklist, portal navigation guide, fire inspection prep, and commissary resources.
These are the things that trip up most new Austin food truck operators.
Austin no longer accepts email applications. All applications must go through their new customer portal.
Since October 2023, ALL trucks with propane or electric cooking equipment require Austin Fire inspection. No exceptions.
Austin issues permits until June 30, 2026. After that, Texas DSHS handles statewide permitting.
Austin offers on-site permitting through a lottery for renewals. Qualification requirements apply.
The Texas Kit includes: Portal walkthrough, fire inspection checklist, and on-site permitting qualification guide.
All applications go through Austin's new customer portal—email applications are no longer accepted. Our Texas Kit includes the complete portal navigation guide.
Yes, mandatory since October 2023 for any truck with propane or electric cooking equipment. Our kit includes the fire inspection checklist.
Austin approved new fees effective October 2025 for mobile vending and fire permits. Our kit includes the current fee schedule.
Texas DSHS takes over statewide permitting. Our kit will be updated as new guidelines are released.
You need a Food Manager Certificate on your unit at all times, plus all employees must be registered as food handlers. Our kit includes certification tracking.
Austin offers on-site permitting through a lottery for qualifying renewals. Our kit explains the qualification requirements.
This page shows you what permits you need. The Texas Kit shows you exactly how to get them—portal navigation, fire prep, and all.
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