Compact Mobile Food Operations

A cart is a type of mobile food facility that is unenclosed and nonmotorized while food trucks and trailers are either motorized or towed by motorized vehicles.

Health and safety requirements for carts depend on the type of food you plan to serve. If your cart handles unpackaged or high-risk foods (also known as potentially hazardous foods), it may be required to have:

  • Multiple sinks with hot and cold running water
  • Mechanical refrigeration
  • Other equipment specific to your menu and operation

All mobile food facilities including carts, trucks, and trailers, must meet the requirements outlined in the California Health and Safety Code (CalCode Chapter 10).

For more information, check out the Street Vending Handbook, a helpful guide to understanding different food operations and requirements in San Bernardino County.

To maintain an active and valid health permit for your compact mobile food operation (CMFO) or cart, an annual decal renewal inspection must be completed before paying the invoice.

  1. Schedule an in-person decal inspection by calling 800.442.2283
  2. Bring the following required documents to your appointment:
    • Form A or Form B: Commissary/Commercial Kitchen Agreement
    • Form C: Mobile Food Facility Operating Schedule
    • Form D: Mobile Food Facility Authorization for Use of Restroom Facilities

Note: The decal renewal inspection must be completed during the month your health permit expires in order to stay valid.

Once your plans have been approved, follow these steps to proceed:

  1. Complete any corrections listed on the approved plan review report.

  2. Schedule your final construction inspection by calling our office at 800.442.2283.

  3. Fill out and bring the following documents to your final inspection:

Note: All documents are required and must be completed to finalize the permitting process.

To submit plans for review, please make sure to include all of the following documents:

You can submit your completed application and plans in person or by mail to any of our three office locations in Rancho Cucamonga, San Bernardino, and Hesperia. Please note: Cash and check payments are only accepted at the Rancho Cucamonga and San Bernardino offices. Cash payments must be made for the exact dollar amount.

Prefer to submit digitally? You can email your documents to EHS.CustomerService@dph.sbcounty.gov and make your payment online through our secure payment portal.

Yes, you can cook from raw on a cart, but only if your cart meets the construction requirements for a high-risk cart.

Some of the key requirements include (but are not limited to):

  • A handwash sink
  • A three-compartment sink
  • A hot water supply

For more information about health, safety, and permitting requirements for mobile food vendors, including construction standards for carts, please review the following resources:

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