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Food Establishment, Retail Non-Permanent Location License (food truck / cart): Philadelphia restaurant guide

Philadelphia L&I

What it is

The L&I license for selling food from a food truck, movable stand or cart. Each mobile unit needs its own license.

When a restaurant needs it

If you also run a food truck, trailer or cart in Philadelphia.

How to apply

Apply in eCLIPSE (or by appointment at the Permit and License Center) with your BIRT account, CAL and a Health Department License Eligibility Report for the unit dated within 30 days.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
$179 (a $20 non-refundable application fee is applied toward it)
Processing time
Online applications reviewed within five business days
Renewal
Annual ($179) with a new LER each year; 1.5% per month late penalty after 60 days
Who files
Owner or authorized agent files in eCLIPSE.

Good to know

Where you can park and sell is governed separately (vending districts, sidewalk vending licenses and PPA/Streets rules) — this license alone does not give you a spot.

Official source

L&I — Food Establishment Retail, Non-Permanent Location License

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.