Navigating the various permits and licenses you will need to acquire for your mobile market can be overwhelming. The following list of permit/license granting departments and agencies will help you get started:
Health Departments
Your state/county Health Departments will be an important resource for you. For instance, some or all of your staff will need a food handler certificate or a food manager certificate, which is only granted by the health department.
We recommend that you make contact with your health department early to establish your key contacts and gain an understanding of the rules you will need to abide by, as well as which applications you will need to submit and by when. Navigating these department(s) can be overwhelming, but don’t be discouraged. We suggest finding an advocate who you can work with to explain everything you need to do.
Municipal
Similar to the health departments, navigating your municipal departments can be challenging. Again, don’t be discouraged. It’s a good idea to ask for a meeting with your local representative to explain your business and your business needs.
It is common for brick and mortar businesses to meet with local administration before starting out to ensure they understand what they need to do. Your business will be no different. Establishing positive relationships with your municipal contacts and ensuring you understand and abide by the rules and regulations will be important to your market’s success. Your social mission won’t mean much to a municipal administrator if you are disregarding the rules.
If you are preparing food or giving produce away, be sure to check with your local health department to understand the licensing you’ll need to obtain and/or the regulations that must be followed by you and your staff.
It’s important to note:
- You may be eligible for licensing reduced fees if you are operating out of a 501c3 (a charitable organization)
- Find out if:
- If you need a license like a food truck
- If you need a permit or at least permission to park on public property.
- If parking on public property, seek permission in writing
- If parking solely on private property, you should still check for licensing requirements.
As previously mentioned, most departments are set up for food truck licensing, so you’ll need to strike a balance between moving the process along and not ending up being subject to inspections that are unnecessary.
SNAP/EBT
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) system is administered through the USDA (federal). Be aware that SNAP/EBT involves an extensive application process, so we advise that you do not delay in submitting your app;icatom. Offering SNAP/EBT to your customers is critical for food access and will open up a strong customer base. Be aware that you will need to use a point-of-sale (POS) system that accepts SNAP, so work with your bank to get set up.
WIC
The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is administered by each state and the rules vary widely for acceptance of WIC checks. You can access the Food and Nutrition Service Contact Directory for the WIC contact in your state.
FMNP
The Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) is administered through State departments of AG, then to local entities like WIC clinics, food banks, senior centers, etc… In some states, those benefits are electronic, but not all. Recipients have to be income eligible to receive FMNP checks.
Note: You will only be eligible to accept FMNP if you grow at least some of the food you sell. Check your local dept of AG for rules. See Farmers Market Nutrition Program Contacts | Food and Nutrition Service to find your local agency contact.
What has your experience been like obtaining the necessary permits and licenses for your mobile market? Where did you run into challenges? How did you overcome them? Do you have any tips to share for owners/operators just starting out?