Houston previously issued its own mobile food unit permits and medallions through the Houston Health Department and Houston Permitting Center. With Texas statewide licensing beginning July 1, 2026, mobile food vendors need a Texas DSHS license; check the Houston Health Department page for how city requirements apply now, plus fire safety, vending location rules and the Texas sales tax permit.
Research list
| Requirement | Where |
|---|---|
| Statewide mobile food vendor license | Texas DSHS |
| City status and transition information | Houston Health Department |
| Legacy city permit (HHD1008) information | Houston Permitting Center |
| Fire safety and location rules | City of Houston |
| Sales tax permit | Texas Comptroller |
Worked example
Nina runs a Vietnamese food truck that had a Houston city permit before the change. She reads the Texas DSHS licensing information to understand how existing local permits transition and when she needs the statewide license. She checks the Houston Health Department page for current city information, keeps her commissary agreement and fire inspection records up to date and confirms that her sales tax permit is current. She also checks location rules for the business districts where she vends at lunch.
Questions to ask in Houston
- How does my existing permit transition to the DSHS license?
- Which location restrictions apply in the areas I serve?
- What fire safety checks apply to my truck?
- Do events require extra approvals?
Building a route in Houston
Houston's size means drive times matter. Cluster stops in a few areas, pair weekday lunch stops with evening events nearby and keep your schedule current online. Confirm location rules for each area and keep permission letters for private lots.
Records to keep
- DSHS license
- Inspection reports
- Commissary information
- Fire records
- Sales tax permit
- Insurance certificate
Staying updated
Rules are changing; check DSHS and city pages before each renewal.
Before you vend in a new area
Confirm the location is allowed, get written permission for private lots, check parking and generator rules, and add the stop to your website schedule before posting it on social media.
Common questions
Is this the full list for my exact location?
No checklist can be complete for every address. Use it to research, and confirm with each agency.
Do you help with permits?
No, we build food truck websites. Permit questions go to the agencies listed.
Where can I get help with transitions?
Contact DSHS and the Houston Health Department directly.
Does Houston still issue medallions?
Check the Houston Health Department and DSHS for current status after the statewide change.
Do I need a commissary?
Confirm with DSHS and the city which base or commissary rules apply to your license type.
Can I vend in nearby cities too?
Yes, following each city's location and fire rules under your statewide license.
Sources
- Texas DSHS: Mobile food vendors
- Houston Health Department: Mobile food units
- Houston Permitting Center: Mobile Food Unit Medallion (HHD1008)
- Texas Comptroller: Sales and use tax
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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