Start a Food Truck in Atlanta, GA
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck around Atlanta, GA.
Information last reviewed 2026-11-09.
1. Write down your concept and numbers
Decide what you will sell, who will buy it and what each plate costs you. A short menu you can cook fast is the best start for a truck.
2. Set up your business
Form a business entity (many owners choose an LLC), get a federal tax ID (EIN) and open a business bank account.
3. Choose and equip your truck
Buy or lease a truck, trailer or cart and have it fitted with the cooking, refrigeration, hand-washing and fire-safety equipment your local health department requires.
4. Get your permits and licenses
Rules differ by state, county and city, so check the details for your area below.
- Georgia mobile food service units are permitted by the county board of health under Chapter 511-6-1 of the state Food Service Rules (revised February 2025). You need a separate application for each unit.
- Each unit needs its own base of operation where wastewater is dumped and water tanks are refilled.
- To sell in a county other than the one that permitted you, apply for authorization from the health department in that county.
- Some counties do not allow mobile food units at all, and zoning is separate from health rules, so check with the city or county planning office.
Official and local sources
Rules and fees change. Confirm with the agency before you apply.
5. Arrange a commissary and insurance
Many areas require a licensed commissary kitchen for prep, water and waste. Get general liability and commercial auto insurance before you operate.
6. Plan where you will sell
Look at breweries, markets, offices, festivals and events. Add your stops to a schedule so customers can find you.
7. Sign up for EasyEats
EasyEats is the point of sale built for food trucks. Take orders and card payments from one tablet, let customers order ahead, and post your locations so people can find you.
Food truck associations
- Food Truck Association of Georgia (FTAG): represents and supports food trucks, food trailers and mobile caterers in Georgia, with advocacy, education and networking.
- Atlanta:
Atlanta Food Truck Association (ATLFTA)
Curious who is already out there? See food trucks near Atlanta, GA. Permit rules for the rest of Georgia are in the Georgia guide.