Virginia Owners Look to Make More Bucks from Food Trucks

Shopping center patrons and office park workers in Fairfax County, Va., have a hunger for food truck fare. But strict zoning rules–including a $16,375 fee—were making it difficult for food trucks to get the county’s permission to operate. Earlier this month, however, the county passed new rules that require only a $100 annual zoning permit, permission from property owners, and other assorted permits and licenses.

To take advantage of the licensing fees food trucks generate, commercial property owners must apply for a one-time $100 food truck permit, and they must detail where the trucks will be located. They may not block a property’s entrances or exits, fire lanes, or required parking spaces. Trucks may sell food only at commercial properties that have a minimum of 25,000 square feet in gross floor area. Other rules restrict the number of hours trucks may stay at a single location and limit the number of trucks operating at any one location to three.

As more local governments ease their food truck restrictions, more commercial property owners are likely to be approached by food truck operators. For factors to consider when determining whether to allow food trucks on or around your property, see “The Truck Stops Here—Or Should It?” available to subscribers here.