Mobile Food Truck: Boston Fire Department Permits
Food trucks with the proper permits from the ISD and Fire departments as well as the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be eligible to obtain a food truck permit through Public Works to vend in the City of Boston.
The Mayor's Office, Public Works, Transportation, Inspectional Services, and Fire departments have developed a single application process for procuring a Mobile Food Truck Permit. In addition to the Mobile Food Truck Permit, Food Trucks must also secure permits from Inspectional Services, Boston Fire Department, and the State of Mass to ensure the safety and health of the Food Truck, vendors, and customers prior to operating in the City of Boston.
Boston Fire Department (BFD) Requirements For Food Truck Permit
Submit verification of Boston Fire Department Inspection:
Copy of Permit(s) issued by BFD (if applicable)
BFD Inspector Signature on permit application
Getting a Boston Fire Department Permit - Before the Inspection
To obtain a Boston Fire Department permit, every Mobile Food Truck must meet and pass a vehicle inspection. All vehicles must be inspected by BFD. At the time of inspection, you will need to submit:
If applicable, a completed BFD Application for Open Burning/Cooking Operations (must be submitted annually)
Application Fee Payment $38.00 (annual fee)
Scheduling an Inspection
Vendors must complete BFD's Annual Permit Application and Application for Open Burning/Cooking Operations (if applicable). The truck inspection with the Fire Department will be done concurrently at the time of your truck inspection with ISD's Health Division. ISD will coordinate with BFD directly to manage this.
Purpose of Inspection
Fire Supression System Installed
If you are using propate and/or have an open flame you need:
-installed Fire Supression System
-Fire Extinguisher(s) 40bc (K required for deep fat frying)
Generator Type
Mobile food trucks that have an 'in-line' generator do NOT need a permit
All other generators will need to be inspected and issued a permit
Please note: standalone or separate fill gasoline-powered generators are not allowed at any public venue or public event
Applications & Forms
Application for Open Burning/Cooking Operations
Additional Questions?
Please contact BFD's Fire Prevention Division - Special Hazards Unit at 617-343-3447.
