Food Cart Requirements

a three-compartment sink

All food carts must:

Be a vehicle that does not require a special permit from the Oregon Department of Transportation to be moved.
Be on wheels (except boats) and have the ability to move at all times.
Not have a permanent connection to any utility, including water, sewer or electricity.
Have built-in equipment, including tanks for both fresh and grey water.

Oregon Mobile Food Unit Operation Guide (PDF)
Oregon Mobile Food Units Rules (PDF)

Food Worker Cards

Food handler cards are required for all persons working in a food cart or commissary. You can take the test online»

Agency Contacts

Before you receive your food cart license from us, there may be other agencies that you need to get approval from. These include, but are not limited to:

Planning (zoning)
Building codes (structural, electrical, plumbing, prefabricated structures)
Fire marshall
City or county authorities

Portland

Bureau of Development Services
Private property vending | 503-823-7300
Electrical, mechanical, plumbing, sewer, sign permits | 503-823-7363
Bureau of Environmental Services
Fats, oils, and grease, sewer overflow and backup | 503-823-7093
Grease interceptor | 503-823-7093
Bureau of Planning & Sustainability
Recycling and compost | 503-823-7700
Bureau of Transportation
Sidewalk vending | 503-823-7002, option 5
Fire Marshall
Propane permit | 503-823-3700 or 503-823-3712
Revenue Bureau | 503-823-5157
Water Bureau | 503-823-7770