Food Truck License Cost in Mumbai: Permits, Process & Fees Explained

The food truck business in Mumbai is booming. From gourmet burgers to fusion dosas, food trucks offer a dynamic alternative to traditional restaurants. But before you rev up your engine and start serving hungry customers, there’s a critical step you can’t skip: licensing.

Starting a food truck involves more than just a great menu and a second-hand truck. It requires careful planning, legal compliance, and a clear understanding of the permits and fees involved. This guide breaks down everything food truck owners need to know, from the types of licenses required to the costs and process of attaining them.

Why Start a Food Truck in Mumbai?

Mumbai’s bustling streets, diverse population, and love for street food make it a fertile ground for launching a food truck business. The city’s fast-paced lifestyle fuels demand for quick, affordable, and flavorful meals, making mobile kitchens a perfect fit. Unlike traditional restaurants, food trucks offer flexibility, lower startup costs, and the ability to reach customers across multiple locations. Here’s why Mumbai is ideal for food truck entrepreneurs:

• Lower Startup Costs: You can start with as little as ₹1.6 lakhs, including a second-hand truck and basic kitchen setup.
• Mobility & Flexibility: Operate in high-footfall areas like college campuses, business districts, and weekend markets.
• Diverse Customer Base: Serve everything from fusion Indian snacks to global cuisines, catering to varied tastes.
• Growing Industry: India’s food truck market is projected to grow from USD 165 million in 2024 to USD 280 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 9.23%.
• Social Media Friendly: Food trucks thrive on Instagram-worthy dishes and viral marketing, helping build brand visibility quickly.

Types of Food Trucks in Mumbai

Food trucks in Mumbai cater to a wide range of tastes:

• Street Food Trucks: Street food trucks are the heart of Mumbai’s mobile culinary scene. They serve beloved local favorites like vada pav, chaat, momos, and dosas, often with a creative twist. These trucks are popular among college students and office-goers looking for quick, affordable meals. Many operate in high-footfall areas like Bandra, Andheri, and Thane.
  Trucks like Street Food Co. and Darjeeling Momos and More blend Indian flavors with global street food trends, offering dishes like keema hot dogs and cheese dosas. These trucks require a business license, FSSAI registration, and health department clearance to operate legally.

• Gourmet Trucks: Gourmet food trucks elevate the street food experience by offering premium dishes like sushi rolls, wood-fired pizzas, and fusion tacos. These trucks cater to foodies seeking restaurant-quality meals on the go. Bombay Food Truck and The Rolling Kitchen are standout examples, serving items like mac and cheese, hot dogs and pesto pasta.
  Gourmet trucks often use high-end ingredients and focus on presentation, making them ideal for upscale events or corporate zones. They require a commercial driver’s license, a fire department NOC, and often operate from a commissary kitchen to maintain quality and hygiene.

• Dessert Trucks: Dessert trucks specialize in sweet treats like waffles, cupcakes, cookies, and ice cream. They’re a hit at night markets, festivals, and near college campuses. Sweetish House Mafia and Waffles on Wheels are popular dessert trucks in Mumbai, known for indulgent offerings like Nutella sea salt cookies and red velvet sandwiches.
  These trucks often have a strong social media presence to attract customers and showcase their visually appealing desserts. Licensing includes FSSAI approval, health certificates, and fire safety compliance, especially for trucks using baking equipment.

• Event-Based Trucks: Event-based food trucks operate at weddings, corporate gatherings, festivals, and private parties. They offer customizable menus and cuisines ranging from Indian to Continental. Companies like CaterNinja and PartyOne provide food trucks for hire, complete with staff and setup.
  These trucks are designed for high-volume service and can cater to 200–300 guests per event. They require temporary permits, location-specific approvals, and coordination with event organizers. Event-based trucks are ideal for entrepreneurs looking to scale their food truck business without daily street operations.

Essential Licenses & Permits

To operate legally and safely, food truck owners must obtain several licenses and permits. Each serves a specific purpose and ensures compliance with local, state, and national regulations. Here’s a breakdown of must-have permits and their typical costs:

1. FSSAI License – Food Safety Compliance

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is mandatory for any business involved in food production, handling, or sale. It certifies that your food truck meets hygiene and safety standards. Depending on your annual turnover, you may need a basic registration, state license, or central license. Without this, your food truck cannot legally serve food.

Cost: ₹100–₹7,500 

2. Trade License – Legal Business Operation

Issued by the BMC (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation), the trade license allows you to operate a commercial business within city limits. It confirms that your food truck complies with local zoning laws and business regulations. This license is essential for avoiding fines and shutdowns. 

Cost: ₹5,000 

3. Fire Safety Certificate – Hazard Prevention

Since food trucks use gas stoves, fryers, and electrical appliances, a Fire Safety Certificate from the Maharashtra Fire Services is crucial. It ensures your truck is equipped with fire extinguishers, proper ventilation, and safe cooking setups. The fire department inspects your truck before issuing a No Objection Certificate (NOC).

Cost: ₹2,000

4. Health Certificate – Hygiene Standards

Issued by the Public Health Department, this certificate verifies that your food truck maintains sanitary conditions. It includes inspections of your commissary kitchen, food storage, and waste disposal systems. This is vital for protecting public health and building customer trust. 

Cost: ₹3,000 

5. Vehicle Registration – Commercial Use Approval

Your food truck must be registered with the Regional Transport Office (RTO) as a commercial vehicle. This includes obtaining a commercial driver’s license if required. It ensures your truck meets road safety standards and is legally allowed to operate in public areas. 

Cost: ₹1,500

6. Shop & Establishment License – Labor Law Compliance

If you hire staff, you’ll need a Shop & Establishment License under the Maharashtra Shops and Establishments Act. It governs working hours, employee rights, and workplace conditions. This license is crucial for maintaining ethical labor practices and avoiding legal issues. 

Cost: Varies by workforce size 

7. GST Registration – Tax Compliance

If your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs (₹40 lakhs for goods), you must register for Goods and Services Tax (GST). This allows you to collect and remit taxes legally, issue GST invoices, and claim input tax credits. GST registration is free and can be done online. 

Cost: Free

Step-by-Step Licensing Process

Here’s how food truck owners can navigate the licensing process:

1. Business Registration

Before diving into the food truck world, you must legally register your business. This step gives your venture a formal identity and allows you to operate under recognized business structures. Why It’s Important:

• It establishes your food truck as a legal entity.
• Enables you to open a business bank account.
• Required for tax filings and other licenses.

How to Register:

• • Choose a structure: Sole Proprietorship (simple, low cost), Partnership (if co-owned), or Private Limited Company (for scalability).
  • Apply through the MCA portal: For companies, register via the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.

• Get a Certificate of Incorporation (for companies) or GSTIN (if applicable).
• Documents needed:
  • PAN card
  • Aadhaar card
  • Address proof
  • Business name and nature

2. FSSAI License

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) license is mandatory for any food business in India, including mobile food trucks. It ensures that your food truck complies with national hygiene and safety standards. Why It’s Important:

• Legally required to sell or serve food.
• Builds customer trust by certifying food safety.
• Protects your business from penalties and shutdowns.

How to Apply:

• Visit the FSSAI portal: https://foscos.fssai.gov.in
• Choose the right license type:
  • Basic Registration: For turnover below ₹12 lakhs.
  • State License: For ₹12 lakhs–₹20 crores.
  • Central License: For turnover above ₹20 crores or interstate operations.
• Submit documents:
  • Identity proof
  • Address proof
  • Business registration certificate
  • Food truck layout and menu
• Pay the fee: ₹100–₹7,500 depending on license type.

3. Municipal Approval

Once your business is registered and you’ve applied for an FSSAI license, the next crucial step is obtaining municipal approval from the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). This ensures your food truck complies with local zoning laws and is authorized to operate in public spaces. Why It’s Important:

• Legally allows you to operate in designated zones across Mumbai.
• Prevents fines or forced shutdowns by local authorities.
• Ensures your truck doesn’t disrupt traffic or violate public safety norms.

How to Get Approval:

• Submit your business plan: Include your truck layout, menu, and proposed operating zones.
• Apply through BMC’s central purchase department: As per the new policy, only 50 food trucks are permitted across Mumbai’s seven zones.
• Get NOCs: You’ll need No Objection Certificates from the traffic, fire, and health departments.
• Participate in tenders: Locations are allocated via a bidding process.

4. Health Department Clearance

Health department clearance is a critical step in ensuring your food truck meets public hygiene and sanitation standards. In Mumbai, this license is issued under Section 394 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act (MMC) and is mandatory for all food vendors, including mobile kitchens. Why It’s Important:

• Certifies that your food truck and commissary kitchen follow hygiene protocols.
• Prevents foodborne illnesses and contamination.
• Required for FSSAI license approval and municipal operation.

How to Apply:

• Visit the MCGM portal: Apply online under the “Citizen Services” section.
• Submit required documents:
  • Kitchen layout and sanitation plan
  • Details of food preparation and storage
  • Identity and business registration proof
• Inspection: A sanitary inspector will visit your truck and kitchen to verify cleanliness and food safety practices.
• Fee: ₹3,000 (approx.), varies based on product type and area.

5. Fire Department NOC

A Fire No Objection Certificate (NOC) is mandatory for food trucks using gas stoves, fryers, or electrical cooking equipment. Issued by the Mumbai Fire Brigade, it certifies that your truck complies with fire safety norms and is equipped to prevent and respond to fire hazards. Why It’s Important:

• Ensures safety for staff and customers.
• Required for municipal approval and trade license.
• Protects your business from liability in case of fire incidents.

How to Apply:

• Prepare a fire safety plan: Include extinguisher placement, ventilation, and escape routes.
• Submit application: Online via the Maharashtra Fire Services portal.
• Documents required:
  • Truck layout and equipment details
  • Ownership proof
  • Authorization letter (if applying via a consultant)
• Inspection: Fire officials will inspect your truck before issuing the NOC.
• Fee: ₹2,000 (approx.), varies by setup and location.

6. Vehicle Registration

Your food truck must be registered as a commercial vehicle with the Regional Transport Office (RTO). This ensures your truck is legally recognized for business use and meets road safety standards. Key Requirements:

• Commercial Registration Certificate from RTO
• Vehicle Fitness Certificate confirming roadworthiness
• Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
• Insurance: Commercial vehicle insurance is mandatory
• Road Permit: Needed if you plan to operate across districts or states

How to Apply:

• Visit your local RTO or apply via the Parivahan portal
• Submit documents including:
  • Vehicle purchase invoice
  • ID and address proof
  • Food truck layout and modifications (if any)
• Pay applicable fees (approx. ₹1,500–₹3,000 depending on vehicle type).

7. Shop & Establishment License

To ensure public health and hygiene, you must obtain a Health License from the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai (MCGM) under Section 394 of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation Act. Why It’s Required:

• Certifies that your food truck meets sanitation and hygiene standards.
• Mandatory for handling and serving food to the public.
• Required for municipal trade license approval.

How to Apply:

• Visit the MCGM portal and fill out the Common Application Form under Citizen Services.
• Upload required documents:
  • Truck layout and kitchen setup
  • Water source and waste disposal plan
  • FSSAI license copy
  • Owner ID and address proof
• Pay applicable fees (varies by food type and truck size).
• Await inspection by a Sanitary Inspector or Medical Officer of Health (MOH).
• This is typically valid for 1 year and must be renewed annually.

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