State Licensing Requirements for Mobile Food Vendors​

​Mobile food vendors operating within the City of Dallas are now required to obtain their state permit directly from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), following the implementation of Texas Health & Safety Code Chapter 437B and the adoption of Dallas Ordinance No. 33283, which eliminated local mobile food vending permits. Effective July 1, 2026, DSHS is solely responsible for licensing, conducting inspections, and enforcing food safety regulations for all mobile food vendors statewide. Vendors seeking a permit must submit their applications through the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Program by contacting 512‑834‑6727 or by visiting the DSHS website here. While food safety oversight has transitioned to the state, mobile food vendors must continue to comply with applicable City of Dallas ordinances, including zoning, fire safety, property‑use restrictions, and location requirements. Existing Dallas County permits are no longer administered locally, and vendors should refer to DSHS for statewide licensing transition procedures. Food safety complaints and enforcement matters should also be directed to DSHS at 512‑406‑2644 or through the DSHS website​.  Additional resources, including application instructions and vendor guides in English and Spanish, are available through DSHS to support operators in meeting statewide requirements and ensuring compliance.​​​​

​