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Food Trucks

Mobile Food Unit (Food Truck) operators are required to possess a license per LCO §743.03. Food truck licenses must be renewed annually and expire every year on May 1.
 
Visit our CitizenServe Portal to apply for or renew your license.
 

Documents Required for License

To apply for or renew your Food Truck License, you will need the documents listed below. As the operator, it is your responsibility to upload all documentation to the CitizenServe portal. Do not send any documents to the Housing and Building Department.

  • Current (2025) food service operation license from the Cuyahoga County Board of Health
  • Proof of general liability coverage in the amount of at least $1,000,000 naming the City of Lakewood as additionally insured
  • A third-party inspection completion form certifying the LP connections
  • Written permission from the property owner where your Mobile Food Unit will operate
  • Payment of the licensing fee:
    • $50 for businesses within city limits
    • $150 for businesses from outside city limits

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you submit your application, the Housing and Building Department will review it, usually within two to three days. After confirming that all required documents have been uploaded, the Department will approve the application, and you will receive an email notification to call the Lakewood Fire Department, Division of Fire Prevention to schedule an inspection. Their phone number is (216) 529-6660.

If your vehicle passes this inspection, you will receive a sticker to be placed on your vehicle in a visible area and/or a printed document stating that you have passed. If your vehicle fails the inspection, you can reschedule with the Lakewood Fire Department on-site.

After passing, your Food Truck License can then be printed from your CitizenServe account.

Am I allowed to vend on public property?

Vending on public property, such as city streets, sidewalks, and parks, is prohibited unless you are participating in a special event which is sponsored by the City of Lakewood, or by a Lakewood non-profit that has obtained a Special Event Permit from the City.

With a Lakewood Food Truck License, you may vend on private property with the owner’s permission.

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