A commissary is a licensed base where many food trucks prep, store, clean, fill water and dump waste. Before signing, ask about licensing status, hours and access, storage space, water and grease disposal, parking, power, what the agreement documents for your permits, and total monthly cost.
Questions to ask
- Is the facility licensed and in good standing? Can I see the license?
- Will you sign the commissary agreement my permit requires?
- Access hours, including early mornings and late nights
- Dry, cold and frozen storage space included
- Fresh water filling and wastewater and grease disposal
- Overnight truck parking and power hookups
- Prep space and equipment I can use
- All fees: monthly, utilities, storage, cleaning, deposits
- Notice period to leave
Worked example
Dana visits three commissaries. The first is cheapest but closes at 9 p.m., which won't work for brewery nights. The second has 24-hour access but no cold storage. The third costs more but includes cold and dry storage, overnight parking with power, water filling, grease disposal and a signed commissary agreement for her permit. She reads the agreement, confirms the facility's license is current and asks two current tenants about reliability. She chooses the third and budgets the higher rent as a fixed monthly cost.
Common mistakes
- Choosing on price without checking access hours
- No written agreement
- Not confirming the facility's license
- Ignoring storage limits
Making the commissary work for you
Plan your daily routine around commissary hours: prep, loading, water fill, waste dump and cleaning. Keep your storage organized and labeled, follow the facility's rules and maintain a good relationship with the manager, who can help with deliveries or space when you grow.
Red flags
Unclear fees, no written agreement or a license you can't verify.
Questions for current tenants
Ask other trucks at the commissary about reliability, cleanliness, how disputes are handled and whether the manager responds quickly when equipment breaks.
Common questions
Is a commissary required everywhere?
Many jurisdictions require one for trucks that prepare food; check your state and local rules.
Can I use my home kitchen?
Usually not for a food truck. Check your state rules.
Can two trucks share one commissary agreement?
Each truck usually needs its own agreement; check your state's rules.
What if my commissary closes?
Keep a backup option in mind and notify your licensing agency as required if your base changes.
Can a restaurant serve as my commissary?
Some licensed restaurants rent space to trucks; it must meet your licensing requirements.
Can I store my truck at home instead?
Some areas require overnight parking at the commissary; check your rules.
How far should the commissary be from my stops?
Close enough to keep daily driving reasonable; long drives add fuel and time costs.
Sources
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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