Start a Food Truck in Jackson, MS
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck around Jackson, MS.
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.
- In Mississippi, mobile food units such as food trucks must be permitted and inspected by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). A food permit must be in hand before you operate, and a home kitchen is not an approved facility.
- MSDH handles permits electronically. Start by emailing food@msdh.ms.gov for the plan review packet. Permit fees are invoiced and paid online, and the Division of Food Protection phone line is 601-364-2832.
- Mobile units generally need a non-residential base, and the business that hosts it signs a servicing area agreement that goes to MSDH.
- Cities ask to see the MSDH permit. Biloxi and Ocean Springs, for example, request it along with a state tax ID with their vendor applications.
- Expect to register with the Mississippi Department of Revenue for sales tax, and ask your city or county about a business license.
Official and local sources
- MSDH food permits and fees
- MSDH retail food permits and inspections Q&A
- Mississippi State University Extension: how to start and operate a food truck
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.
Curious who is already out there? See food trucks near Jackson, MS. Permit rules for the rest of Mississippi are in the Mississippi guide.