Retail Mobile Food Handler

Licensing Modernization - Update

Revisions to the MDA food licensing law were signed into law on May 23, 2025, and are in effect starting August 1, 2025. Changes are now in place for all new food businesses, and existing food businesses will be updated as they renew their licenses. For more detail on the changes, please see House File 2446, lines 78.13 through 89.5. More information about the process, including summary reports, are on MDA’s Food Licensing Modernization webpage.

Retail Mobile Food Handler

Retail mobile food handlers sell food directly to the end consumer from temporary stands or mobile locations. Prior to commencing operation you will need to work with your inspector to ensure that the mobile unit meets the Minnesota Food Code requirements so that food is stored, prepared and held in a safe manner. There are several different types of retail mobile operations that have different licensing and regulatory requirements. Your inspector will help you obtain the type of license that best suits your needs. The licensing period for all Retail Mobile Food Handler licenses are from April 1st to March 31st the following year.

Retail Mobile Food Handler Types

Mobile Food Unit - This type of business operates 21 days or less in one location and can produce food on site within an enclosed, moveable space. A plan review is required prior to licensing.
Seasonal Temporary Food Stand - This type of business operates 21 days or less in one location and can produce food on site with protection from weather and contamination. A plan review is required prior to licensing.
Retail Food Vehicle/Portable Structure or Cart - This type of business operates up to 365 days per year and can sell prepackaged food or raw produce only. A plan review is not required for this license.
Special Event Food Stand - This type of business operates up to 10 days per year and can produce food on site or sell prepackaged food. A plan review is not required for this license. You can now apply for a Special Event Food Stand online!
Food Cart - This type of business is a food and/or beverage service establishment that is a non-motorized vehicle that is self-propelled by the operator. A plan review is required prior to licensing.

Retail mobile stands are inspected by the Retail Food Program within the Food and Feed Safety Division. Some stands are also inspected and regulated by local public health agencies and the Minnesota Department of Health. If you operate solely within one of the following jurisdictions, please contact the delegated agency assigned to that area (see below).