Independent Operators

Memphis food truck owners question permit cost

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November 1, 2023

Some food truck operators in Memphis, Tennessee are questioning permit requirements, which they say could be too pricey for some operators. The city requires food truck operators to pay a $50 annual permit and pass an inspection. However, to receive this permit, food trucks will need an automatic fire extinguisher system, which can cost thousands of dollars, according to a report by Fox 13 Memphis.

"The new fire system that they have that they want us to get, I do not have that right now," Tony Preston, owner of the Flavors food truck, said in the report. "I'm going to have to get that."

Christina Westbrook, owner of Smurfey's Smokehouse food truck, said that she has never seen a food truck catch on fire.

"I think if it is for the safety of the food trucks, it is fine," she said in the report. "I think if it is for monetary gain, it is not right."