Food trucks in Minnesota

MDH's construction guide says mobile food units must not use or serve food stored or prepared in a private home; all storage and preparation must happen in the unit or in a licensed food establishment. MDH's plan review application says a commissary is required for food carts. Minneapolis requires food preparation and storage at a commercial kitchen licensed in Minneapolis, and Bloomington says mobile food units must operate with a licensed commercial kitchen or commissary for preparation and storage not done in the unit. Check with your licensing agency. Source ↗

The Department of Revenue says sales tax applies to most retail sales of goods and some services in Minnesota, and it also administers a number of local sales taxes. Its sales and use tax page links to a sales tax rate calculator and to e-Services. MDA's Food Handler License applicant form asks for a Minnesota Tax ID number or Social Security number. Source ↗

MDA says that besides the Minnesota Food Code, gas hookups must comply with the State Mechanical Code, and a fire extinguisher with at least a 2A 10 B C rating is needed if the State Fire Marshal requires one. In the cities checked, Duluth mobile food vehicles are subject to inspection by the Duluth Police and Fire departments before approval, Saint Paul bars food trucks from setting up LP tanks or portable generators on the street or sidewalk, and Minneapolis requires propane tanks to be attached to or inside the truck with adequate ventilation and screening. Check with the local fire department. Source ↗