Peddler/Mobile Food Licenses

image of people standing at a food truck

Thank you for your interest in obtaining a Peddler or Mobile Food Vendor Permit from the City of Sioux Falls!

Please be sure to review the full ordinance requirements listed in Peddler and Vendor Ordinances

Please review the resources to the right outlining the requirements necessary for each respective license.

If you have any further questions after reviewing the resources, please contact Police Records at 605-367-7226 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Mobile Food Vendor License Details

Step 1.Step 1: Check Your Unit and Location

Before applying, ensure your mobile vending setup meets these operational standards:

Time Limit: You may only operate in one location for a maximum of 6 hours in a 24-hour period.
Location Rules: You cannot operate in residential areas, City-owned parking lots, or parking ramps without specific prior approval.
Pedestrian Space: You must maintain at least 5 feet of clear sidewalk space for pedestrians.
Trash Control: You must provide a trash can and clean up all litter within 25 feet of your unit before leaving.

Step 2.Step 2: Collect Your Required Information

You will need to provide the following details during the application process:

Business ID: A valid South Dakota Sales Tax ID number. For information on obtaining a sales tax number, please contact the South Dakota Department of Revenue or call 1-800-829-9188.
Vehicle Data: The make, model, VIN, and license plate number of the unit.
Owner Consent: A written, signed, and dated letter of permission from the property owner if you are operating on private property. Not sure where you can set up? Check out this map and search!
Proof of Insurance: A Certificate of Insurance ($1M per occurrence / $2M aggregate) that lists the City of Sioux Falls as an "Additional Insured."

Step 3.Step 3: Submit the Online Application

All applications must be submitted through the City's customer self-service portal.

Portal: Use the Customer Self Service (CSS) portal to upload your documents. For step-by-step instructions, see this document.
Fee: There is a $75.00 annual license fee.
Expiration: Note that all licenses expire on December 31 each year.

Step 4.Step 4: Complete the Health Inspection

Your unit must be inspected to ensure it meets South Dakota Department of Health standards:

Scheduling: Call 605-367-8760 to set up an appointment.
Focus: Inspectors will check for proper food temperatures, handwashing stations, and overall sanitation.

Step 5.Step 5: Complete the Fire Inspection

If your unit uses propane, electricity, or grease for cooking, a Fire Marshal inspection is required:

Equipment: You must have a Class K fire extinguisher if you cook with grease.
Safety Checks: The inspector will verify gas leak detection, proper tank mounting, and exhaust hood cleanliness.
Frequency: Fire safety systems must be inspected annually.

Step 6.Step 6: Receive and Display Your License

Once all inspections are passed and fees are confirmed:

Issuance: Your Mobile Food Vendor license will be issued.
Compliance: You must keep your City License and your Property Authorization Letter on the unit at all times while operating.