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1. Do I qualify as a food truck?

A food truck is a self contained vehicle, trailer or pushcart that serves prepared foods or prepares and serves food in various locations of the city.

2. Do I need a business license?

• Yes. The City of Pelham requires inspections by the Building, Fire, and Police Departments. Inspections are conducted annually prior to renewing or issuing a business license.
• The inspection fee is $75.00 for mobile food units. To set up an inspection, please call 205.620.6495. 
• Complete the Business License Application for mobile food units.

3. Where can I set-up my food truck?

• All food trucks must be located off of the public rights-of-way
• No food truck may operate past the hours of operation of the business in which they are located, or 11:00 p.m., unless they have the mayor’s written approval.
• You may only operate in areas zoned non-residential unless you have obtained a permit from the Parks and Recreation Department to operate in city mini-parks or have HOA approval to operate in local neighborhoods.
• All food trucks must have written approval of the business owner for each location at which the food truck operates.  
• All food trucks must have a business license from the City of Pelham to operate in the city.
• No food truck shall operate in excess of three consecutive days in any one location.
• No food truck shall operate on more than two individual sites per day.
• No more than 1 food truck shall operate on the same site per day without the mayor’s written approval.
• Food trucks shall not be located within 200 feet of the main entrance of the nearest restaurant during the restaurant’s posted hours of operation.
• No food trucks shall be located a minimum of 25’ away from any fire hydrant, sidewalk, utility box, ADA accessible ramps or building entrance.
• No food truck shall occupy parking spaces required to fulfill the minimum requirement of a principal use.
• No food truck shall obstruct or encroach upon fire lanes, vehicular access ways or pedestrian walkways.
• Food truck signage is limited to signage located on the mobile food unit.  No portable signage is allowed.
• During the time of non-operation, the food truck and all associated vehicles, including any tables, chairs and umbrellas, etc. must be removed from the premises.

4. What are the permitted hours of operation for food trucks?

No food truck may operate past the hours of operation of the business in which they are located, or 11:00 p.m., unless they have the mayor’s written approval.

5. Who is responsible for food and trash disposal?

Food trucks are responsible for the proper disposal of waste and trash associated with the operation. Trash receptacles must be within three feet of the truck. City trash receptacles shall not be used.

6. Are there restrictions on sounds/signage?

• No amplified bullhorns, flashing lights or other distraction shall be permitted.
  
• Signage is limited to signage located on the truck; no portable signage is allowed.

7. What other agencies must grant approval for food trucks?

Shelby County Health Department approval is required. Shelby County Health Department