Food Trucks

Are you interested in operating a Food Truck in the City of Great Falls? Follow these steps: 

Step 1A:  Contact Great Falls Fire Rescue (GFFR)

For state regulations, such as hood vent requirements and fire extinguishing systems.

Website:  greatfallsmt.net/fire/mobile-food-vendor-requirements

Phone:  (406) 727-8070

• GFFR requires a fire safety inspection of the mobile food/temporary cooking operation annually.
• A copy of the fire inspection report, and the inspection, testing, and maintenance report shall be kept readily available in the mobile food or temporary cooking operation.

Step 1B:  Contact City-County Health Dept. (Environmental Health Division)

For a Mobile Food Establishment (MFE) Plan Review and License.

Website:  cascadecountymt.gov/280/Food-Service-Licensing-Permitting

Phone:  (406) 454-6950

• All MFE are required to have a state (DPHHS) Retail Food Establishment license
• New MFE must go through plan review and be inspected in the county they live in prior to being licensed
• MFE that change ownership must complete plan review and get licensed under the new owner
• MFE from other counties should contact CCHD prior to operating in the county

Step 2:  Contact City Planning and Community Development

For business licensing requirements and zoning regulations

Website:  https://greatfallsmt.net/planning/food-trucks

Phone:  (406) 455-8430

• Vendors are responsible for maintaining the area around the truck in a neat, clean appearance and shall provide a trash receptacle and dispose of the refuse at an off-site location. OCCGF 17.20.8.060
• Location of a food truck and customer line must not block the public or interfere with access to sidewalks, ramps, curb cuts, or other conveniences for individuals with disabilities. OCCGF 12.3.010

Step 3: Determine where you will operate

In a City park or City owned property? Contact Park and Recreation for regulations, including a mobile vendor contract, insurance requirements, and fees. (406) 771-1265

On privately owned property?  Contact Planning for allowable zoning districts and to ensure vehicular and pedestrian circulation are not negatively impacted. (406) 455-8430

In a Downtown metered parking space? Contact SP+ (the City’s Downtown Parking Vendor) for meter bagging and other downtown parking information. (406) 727-7828