First, Let’s Be Clear on What “Permit” Means in Houston

When people mention "Permits" for your Brand Activation it's almost always in reference to the City of Houston Health Department Operational Permits that specifically allows a mobile food unit (that's the official term for food truck/food trailer/food cart etc!) to prepare and serve food within the City of Houston limits.

​​​​

✅ Pro Tip: In Houston, if your activation involves food—whether it’s being sold, sampled, or given away or if its prepared on the food truck or pre-packaged and handed out the window—you need a valid food permit from the health department. No exceptions.

​

No Food? No Problem.

If your brand activation utilizes a food truck but does not involve food, and you’re simply using the truck as a mobile billboard, merch station, or lounge—no health permit is required. You can skip this process entirely.

​

Two Types of Food Permits in Houston

If your activation does include food, you’ll need to choose one of the following:​

​

1. Annual Mobile Food Unit Permit

Ideal for trucks that are active in Houston year-round or regularly used in multiple activations.

• This is what is referred to as a "medallion" or "food permit"

• Requires application and submission of documents

• An inspection of the food truck needs to be scheduled with the Houston Health Department.

• Once approved, the truck can operate for 12 months within city limits.

• This is the most flexible option for marketing agencies working with branded trucks across multiple campaigns.​

​

👉 Read: How to Get an Annual Food Truck Permit in Houston (coming soon)

​

2. Temporary Event Permit

Designed for single-location activations tied to a specific event.

• Paper application with no inspection

• Valid for 1–20 days (or 21–40 days for longer events).

• Tied to a single truck, at a single location, for the duration of one larger qualified specific event.​

​

⚠️ Beware: “Temporary” does not mean you can operate your brand activation temporarily in Houston. A temporary permit must be tied to a larger qualified event type. 

 

👉 Read: How to Get a Temporary Food Truck Permit in Houston

​

Need a Partner on the Ground?

We’ve helped dozens of agencies navigate Houston’s unique permitting landscape and execute clean, compliant brand activations with mobile food trucks. Whether you need a permit secured, a turnkey vehicle, or just local know-how—we’ve got you covered.​