Start a Food Truck in Lansing, MI
A step-by-step guide to opening a food truck around Lansing, MI.
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 Michigan local health departments license mobile food establishments, with oversight from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Whether you are a Mobile Food Establishment or a Special Transitory Food Unit depends on your menu, operations and the unit's construction.
- Plan review is required, and a mobile unit generally needs a licensed commissary. Detroit, for example, requires the unit to return to its commissary at least every 24 hours.
- Before serving in a health department's area you must notify that department, and each truck needs a certified person in charge.
- If your first location is a state or county fair, contact MDARD.
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
The Grand Rapids Food Truck Association is dedicated to fostering community connection through the vibrant and diverse food truck culture in Grand Rapids.
Curious who is already out there? See food trucks near Lansing, MI. Permit rules for the rest of Michigan are in the Michigan guide.