Food Trucks
A Mobile Cooking Operation (MCO) is a vehicle, trailer or cart which cooks, sells, or distributes food when parked. Public safety is of utmost importance, so MCOs must get certain permits and approvals before opening.
Some examples of MCOs include:
- Food truck
- Hot dog cart
- Doughnut shack
- Vending truck
| Approval process |
| Food Handling Permit |
| Firstly, you must obtain a Food Handling Permit. These permits are issued by Alberta Health Services. |
| Business License / Mobile Cooking Operation Permit |
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Your application will be reviewed by a City Safety Codes Officer, who will inform you if trade permits will also be required for your unit. Trades work (gas, electrical, etc.) must be completed by licensed contractors, with inspections to follow. Once you have your MCO permit, it must be displayed on the unit. To apply online, click below: To apply in person - complete the PDF below and bring it to Planning & Development Services.
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| Fire Safety |
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In addition to your Fire Safety Inspection, you must have an approved Fire Safety Plan in place. |
Annual Inspections
An annual inspection of Mobile Cooking Operations is mandatory. The City of Medicine Hat offers an opportunity for all operators of local food trucks to gather in one location for unit evaluations and applications. This "Food Truck Roundup" occurs in the spring of each year, and includes:
- Alberta Health Services Inspections
- Safety Codes inspections
- Fire Safety inspections
- Business License renewals
If you have made an application for a Mobile Cooking Operation with the City in the past, you will be automatically notified by mail, in advance of the inspection event.