City of La Porte to Begin Enforcement of New Food Truck Vendor Law

Beginning Monday, February 10, 2025, the City of La Porte will enforce a new law requiring all mobile food vendors—including food trucks, food carts, concession carts, and concession trailers—to obtain a permit before operating within city limits. This regulation ensures compliance with updated health and safety standards.

To allow vendors time to comply, city officials have provided a 10-day grace period following the law’s effective date of February 1, 2025. Any vendor operating without a valid permit after this period may face shutdown by Code Enforcement.

The ordinance, approved by the La Porte City Council and Mayor Rick Helton on December 9, 2024, was introduced to regulate mobile food vendors and ensure safe and legal operations. It establishes clear guidelines for food safety, proper waste disposal, and business practices, reducing risks associated with unregulated vendors.

How to Apply for a Mobile Food Vendor Permit

The City of La Porte has created a guide and information packet to help vendors navigate the new regulations. Food truck operators can apply for a permit through the City’s online permitting portal:

La Porte Permitting Portal
View Information Packet

Operating with an expired permit may result in enforcement actions, including fines or shutdowns.

Stay Compliant and Avoid Penalties

Failure to obtain the required permit may result in fines of up to $2,000 per violation and a potential shutdown of operations. Vendors must submit all required documents and receive approval before conducting business. Vendors with existing permits must renew them every 90 days.

For Assistance

The City of La Porte’s Permits and Inspections Division is available to assist vendors with any questions regarding the application process. Business owners can contact the department at (281) 470-5073 or email Permits@laportetx.gov.