Food trucks have been a hot topic in the Triangle for the past few years. More area governments are regulating how and where food trucks can operate. And as Durham councilors debate changes to the city food truck rules and the debate in Raleigh quiets down, we were wondering where it all stands.
Here is a brief breakdown of the basic rules for food trucks in the Triangle.
| Raleigh | Durham | Chapel Hill | Carrboro | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Permit Required? | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Where Allowed | Private property only. Property owner must also obtain permit. | Allowed in the right-of-way and on private commercially zoned property. | Privately owned commercial property with owner’s permission. | Parking lots illustrated on map provided to applicants |
| Parking Regulations | Food trucks must be located at least 100 feet from the front door of any restaurant and outdoor dining area and at least 50 feet from any permitted mobile food vending cart location. | No restrictions other than normal parking rules. | Downtown: 100 feet from the customer entrance of restaurant during hours of operation (unless owner waives). All areas: 15 feet from fire hydrant. | Must not impede a business or operate as a drive-thru. |
| Hours of Operation | 6 a.m. to 3 a.m. | No restrictions. | No restrictions. | 6 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. |
| Permitting Fees* | Vendor: $150. Property owner: $78. | $25 for vendor. | $118 each for vendor and property owner. Vendor also pays $600 fee. | $75 for vendor. |
| Number Allowed | One truck per lot. | No restrictions. | No restrictions. | No restrictions. |
