Known for its food truck-friendly atmosphere and diverse cuisine, the Bay State is an excellent place to launch your dream food truck business.
From licenses and permits to creating a successful business plan, our guide to starting a food truck in Massachusetts has everything you need to get started.
Understand Food Truck Requirements in Massachusetts
Before applying for your food truck permits and licenses, you’ll need to meet several requirements, including:
- Business name: The best food truck names are unique, memorable, and clearly describe the food you make.
- Business classification: This determines the structure of your business and how it’s taxed. Limited liability companies (LLCs), partnerships, and sole proprietorships are common classifications for your company.
- Employer identification number (EIN): If you have more than one business owner or hire employees, you must register with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to receive your EIN.
- Plan Review Application: Massachusetts food truck owners must submit a plan review to local health departments prior to opening.
- Certificate of Insurance (COI): A COI is your proof of insurance and is typically required to join Massachusetts food truck festivals.
- Business plan: A strong business strategy is crucial for the success of your food truck. It’s also necessary for securing loans and grants.
Pro Tip: Mass.gov offers a helpful overview of how to start your business in Massachusetts and prepare for success.
Obtain Food Truck Licenses in Massachusetts
The next stop on our journey is applying for the licenses and permits you need to get your business up and running.
While some licenses and permits are state-issued, many fall under the jurisdiction of local districts. It’s crucial to check with state and local governments for specific requirements.
Business Certificate (DBA)
- Also called a “doing business as” certificate it’s required if your business uses a trade name different from its legal name. Note: This is separate from a business license.
- Cost: Varies by city/county
- Where to get it: Your local government offices
Business Registration (LLC businesses only)
- If you structure your business as an LLC, you’ll need to register and file with the Secretary of the Commonwealth
- Cost: Free
- Where to get it: Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Public Health Permit
- Ensures your food truck meets all Massachusetts food code regulations
- Cost: $200/yr.
- Where to get it: Local Board of Health
Sales Tax Permit
- Allows you to collect sales tax through your mobile food business
- Cost: Free
- Where to get it: Massachusetts Department of Revenue (MassTaxConnect portal)
Follow Massachusetts Food Truck Laws
Massachusetts’ food truck laws help maintain a safe, healthy, and legal environment for customers and employees alike. Food truck owners found violating these laws risk fines, license suspensions, or the closure of their business.
Key state laws to be aware of include:
- Fire code compliance: Food trucks must follow the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code
- Health inspections: Food trucks in Massachusetts must undergo regular health inspections from local health departments
- Wastewater disposal: To comply with state and local regulations, all sewage and graywater must be disposed of at an approved waste service area
Pro Tip: Use our health inspection checklist to make sure your truck is prepared and ready to pass!
Get Massachusetts Food Truck Insurance
Protecting your business isn’t just important from a legal standpoint — it’s essential for your success. Crucial insurance coverages include:
- Food truck liability insurance covers property damage and injuries that you cause while conducting business
- Commercial auto insurance offers coverage for property damage and physical injuries caused by driving your food truck
You can’t always avoid accidents, but you can avoid paying for them out-of-pocket. From medical bills to property damage claims, insurance helps cover the cost so you can focus on running your business.
Our Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP) starts at just $25.92 per month, or $299 per year!
Learn the Cost of Starting a Food Truck in Massachusetts
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates that food truck business owners spend over $28,000 per year to meet all state and local legal requirements. However, a lot of the expenses you face while starting your business are one-time costs.
Common expenses for starting a food truck in Massachusetts include:
- Food truck
- New: $80,000–$160,000
- Used: $40,000–$90,000
- Cooking equipment
- Grill/griddle: $1,000–$3,000
- Deep fryer: $1,000–$2,500
- Oven: $1,500–$4,000
- Refrigeration
- Refrigerator/freezer: $2,000–$5,000
- Prep table: $800–$2,000
- Safety and sanitation
- Commercial sink: $1,000–$3,000
- Handwashing sink: $300–$600
- Fire suppression system: $2,000–$6,500
- Technology
- Point of Sale (POS) system: $800–$2,000
- Inventory management software: $30–$300 per month
Pro Tip: Need ideas for what to offer customers? Check out our list of the 13 top-selling food truck items!
Sell at Massachusetts Food Truck Festivals
From Boston to Springfield, Massachusetts is host to a wide variety of popular festivals and community events to attend.
These are the perfect opportunities to share your culinary creations, connect with new customers, and network with other business owners. Once your wheels hit the pavement, check out the following events:
- Framingham Farmer’s Market
- Boston JerkFest
- Salem Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival
- Nantucket Wine & Food Festival
Be sure to look at our directory of food festivals for more events to apply to!
Pro Tip: Competition for festival spots can be fierce, especially during the peak spring and summer months. Learn essential tips for getting your food truck into festivals and increase your chances of getting accepted!
FAQs About Starting a Food Truck in Massachusetts
Can Massachusetts Food Trucks Sell Alcohol?
While most cities in Massachusetts prohibit selling alcohol from food trucks, it’s important to check with local government offices. Some local districts might allow the sale of alcohol with restrictions in place.
Are There Specific Zoning Regulations for Food Trucks in Massachusetts?
Yes, however these restrictions vary by city/county. A few common regulations include:
- Hours of operation: Massachusetts food trucks can only do business during designated hours. However, Boston offers a late night food truck program for eligible participants.
- Parking: Each city has different parking rules, though some cities, such as Worcester, designate “Food Truck Friendly” zones throughout the city.
- Proximity to other businesses: Many cities prohibit food trucks from conducting business near restaurants, schools, and residential areas.
What Are the Fire Safety Requirements for Food Trucks in Massachusetts?
All food trucks must meet the fire safety guidelines issued by state and local governments. These requirements include:
- One Class K extinguisher for food trucks cooking with grease
- An approved fire-suppression system
Inspections and leak tests for propane gas - Approved clearances for cooking surfaces, exhaust systems, and hoods.
Clint Hale
Ohio-based copywriter Clint Hale leverages his experience as an enthusiast of regional eateries and fast-casual dining. He also holds a B.A. in Communication Studies from Kent State University. Before working for FLIP, he was a Senior Copywriter at an SEO marketing agency. Fully trained on the ins and outs of Food Liability Insurance Program, Clint writes to bridge the gap between food and beverage entrepreneurs and the policies that protect their businesses.
Ohio-based copywriter Clint Hale leverages his experience as an enthusiast of regional eateries and fast-casual dining. He also holds a B.A. in Communication Studies from Kent State University. Before working for FLIP, he was a Senior Copywriter at an SEO marketing agency. Fully trained on the ins and outs of Food Liability Insurance Program, Clint writes to bridge the gap between food and beverage entrepreneurs and the policies that protect their businesses.
Kyle Jude
Kyle Jude is the Program Manager for Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP). As a dedicated program manager with 10+ years of experience in the insurance industry, Kyle offers insight into different coverages for food and beverage business professionals who are looking to navigate business liability insurance.
Kyle Jude is the Program Manager for Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP). As a dedicated program manager with 10+ years of experience in the insurance industry, Kyle offers insight into different coverages for food and beverage business professionals who are looking to navigate business liability insurance.