RENTER’S RESOURCE GUIDE
WHAT TYPE OF FOOD VENDOR AM I?
Below are some resources to determine what type of food service vendor you are, and what permits might be required in order to operate in Maricopa County.
Mobile Food Establishments (main page)
Mobile Food Establishment Type I
Common Business Types: Ice creams trucks/carts, cold trucks, booths at farmers’ markets that are selling food items in accordance with limitations of permit type.
Mobile Food Establishment Type II
Common Business Types: Hot Dog Carts, Coffee Carts, Shaved Ice Carts, Kettle Corn Carts, etc.
Mobile Food Establishment Type III
“Mobile Food Unit” means a food establishment that is licensed by this state, that is readily movable and that dispenses food or beverages for immediate service and consumption and other incidental retail items from any vehicle as defined in Section
Annual Event Food Est Guidelines
Special Events Inspection Checklist
Special Event Requirements for Vendors
Certified Food Protection Manager & Food Handler’s Certificate
APPLICATIONS FOR PERMITS
Mobile Food Establishment Type I (online version)
Mobile Food Establishment Type II (online version)
Mobile Food Establishment Type III (online version)
Annual Event Food Est Permit Application (online version)
MARICOPA COUNTY’S APPLICATION PROCESS
Maricopa County oversees all food sales and distributions, excluding pre-packaged, shelf-stable items from approved sources. Depending on your operations, the following permits may be relevant:
1. Eating and Drinking – On-site food service, internet orders, and pick-up.
2. Food Catering – Sale of food at pre-planned events with set meals, no on-site financial transactions. Requires a mobile hand sink and vehicle.
3. Food Processor – Production and packaging of food for offsite retail sales or direct retail sales through a peddler permit or other mobile food permits. Ensure compliance with ADA regulations if the product contains meat.
The permit application fee is $315.00 (fees may vary). Apply online at: Permit Application. During the application, upload your menu, named with your business.
Once submitted, the county will process applications within two to three days and send an invoice for the permit fee. Expedited inspections are available for an additional fee.
Upon payment, your local inspector will schedule an inspection at your operating location. Be prepared to discuss your food preparation methods.
Certain retail processes may require a variance from standard FDA code requirements, such as curing meats at room temperature or extending the shelf life of refrigerated products. Apply for a variance online with a $200.00 review fee (fees may vary). Provide third-party lab reports demonstrating water activity below .88% or a product pH below 4.6.
The application can be filled in at: Variance Application
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