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Oregon Health Authority

Mobile Unit Information

Mobile Food Units (Food trucks, food carts)

Mobile food units make up a vibrant and diverse industry that has made Oregon a top food destination nationally.  The Oregon Health Authority (OHA) stands out for its approach to supporting this growth. Unlike many states, OHA doesn't mandate that mobile food units have a commissary kitchen. Instead, operators can demonstrate their unit is self-sufficient, with the ability to do all food preparation, dishwashing, and storage onboard. However, everything must be "integral" to the unit, and the menu must stay within its originally approved capacity.

Getting Started

Reaching out to your local County Environmental Health Office the best place to get information on licensing and get all your questions answered before purchasing or building a unit.  Even commercially made food carts might not meet the rules, so you can save money by calling your local health department first.

Here are some operators sharing their stories:  
 


Mobile Unit Applications and Guidelines

If you plan to operate a new or previously licensed mobile unit, a Mobile Unit License Application must be submitted to the Local Public Health Authority in your area. Facilities that are being constructed or remodeled must also complete the plan review process locally prior to construction.   

The license application and plan review process and fees may vary, so contact your Local Public Health Authority for details.


Calculating your tank/sink sizes

Enter the measurements for your sinks or water tanks and this will give you the gallon capacity.  

  1. Enter the  length, width and height of the tank.
  2. Use the same number for the "Filled Height" as you put in the "Height" box. 
  3. Click on Calculate
  4. When it is done, look the "Liquid Capacity (US g)"  box for the answer for that sink or tank.
Tank Volume Calculator
Tank Volume Calculator by GIGAcalculator.com

"Know the Code" - Fact Sheets for Operators

Additional languages available courtesy of our partners at Multnomah County Environmental Health.  Full list of fact sheets available on our Food Sanitation Rules webpage.


Oregon Fire Code Rules updated to include Mobile Units

OHA and local Environmental Health Departments do not enforce these rules. But you can click here to find your local fire marshal for any questions or go to the Oregon State Fire Marshal's website. They have these checklists available for operators:

MFU Propane Cylinder Guide



Mobile Food Unit Rule Changes - February 1, 2020

In February 2020, new regulations were implemented for mobile food units (food carts and trucks) and temporary restaurants to enhance statewide enforcement and public health protection. These significant updates, the first major revision since 1997, aimed to improve food safety standards.

Originally, operators had three years to comply. Recognizing the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) and local public health agencies remain committed to supporting operators. They are working collaboratively to develop flexible compliance schedules, allowing for additional time to implement some of the key changes.

A summary of the rule changes is available in English and Spanish, but are not the only changes to the mobile food unit standards.
OHA Press Release -  January 24, 2023 - Mobile unit compliance deadline prompts new interest in rules

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