A food handlers card is simple to obtain, and mandatory not just for food cart owners, but for all workers in the service industry.

To obtain your food handler’s card, you must take a short test. There are a variety of tests available online, on average costing $10. The test involves a series of basic questions regarding food safety - resources for studying are usually provided. Certifications can either be emailed with a digital copy, or physically mailed.

Multnomah County Food Handlers Card: 503.988.5257

Clackamas County Food Handlers Card: 503-742-5300

Oregon Health Authority

Oregon Food Handler's Permit Application

The state of Oregon requires a specific license for mobile food units, such as food carts (mobile food trailers) and food trucks. This requires paying a fee and scheduling a plan review process. More info can be found on your county’s website.

As part of our lease agreement, AFCR provides its food trailer tenants their county’s required documentation for obtaining this license, including blueprints.

Once the plan is approved, you will be required to schedule a pre-opening inspection. When your cart passes the inspection, the county will send your license by mail to be posted visibly inside the cart. If you move locations or change your menu, you’ll need to reach back out to inform the county with the updated information.

You’ll be required to register for a business license for your state. Visit your secretary of state’s website to find the application you’ll need for this process. This process will allow you to obtain an employer identification number (EIN), which you will need for filing taxes and opening a business bank account.

(In the case that you will be operating as a sole proprietor, a business license is not required.)

“Business License” Revenue Bureau Phone: 503.823.5157

To make full use of your food cart, your larger cooking equipment will likely run either propane or natural gas. Most equipment available in food carts, such as fryers, stoves, and griddles, operates on one of these energy sources.

Electrical output is limited to 22 volts/50 amps in AFCR mobile food trailer units, so gas or propane often must be prioritized. To set up your gas, you’ll need to contact your county’s fire department. Some counties have unique regulations, such as requiring a fire suppression system, so check your county’s website to determine exactly what you’ll need.

You are responsible for providing insurance for your business, and to cover your rented food trailer. AFCR assumes no liability for damages done to food cart units for the duration of the lease.

AFCR is able to refer vendors to insurance agents experienced in food cart insurance.