How to Get a Food Truck Permit in Colorado Springs (2026 Guide)

Operating a food truck in Colorado Springs, Colorado requires navigating permits from El Paso County Public Health as well as state and local business licensing. This guide covers every step to legally operate in Colorado Springs.

Core Permits & Licenses

1. Mobile Food License (El Paso County Public Health)

El Paso County Public Health issues the Mobile Food License — required for all food trucks operating in Colorado Springs and El Paso County.

• Application with commissary agreement and menu
• Plan review for new builds
• Pre-opening inspection
• Annual renewal — fee: $200–$400

Renew annually. El Paso County inspects during the operating season.

2. Colorado Springs Business License

All businesses in Colorado Springs must hold a City Sales Tax License / Business Registration. Apply through the City Clerk.

3. Colorado Sales Tax License

Register with the CO Department of Revenue to collect state and city sales tax. Apply at MyColorado.gov.

4. Commissary Agreement

Colorado requires all mobile food units to base from a licensed commissary for daily prep, cleaning, and storage. Commissary must hold its own El Paso County food license.

Health & Food Safety

• Food Manager Certification: At least one certified food protection manager per truck.
• Temperature control: Cold ≤41°F, hot ≥135°F.
• Altitude: At 6,035 ft, cooking times and equipment performance may vary — adjust recipes accordingly.
• Handwashing station: Required with hot water, soap, paper towels.
• Three-compartment sink: Required for on-truck utensil washing.

Where You Can Operate in Colorado Springs

• Downtown Colorado Springs: Tejon St corridor is the primary commercial and dining district.
• Manitou Springs: Tourist destination near Garden of the Gods — separate Manitou Springs permit required if you operate there regularly.
• Military presence: Fort Carson, Peterson SFB, Schriever, Cheyenne Mountain — military community is large and loyal.
• Private property: Brewery lots (Phantom Canyon, Pikes Peak, Cerberus) and commercial parks are popular spots.

Fees & Timeline

Timeline: 4–8 weeks. Inspection required before first service.

Operator Tips

• Military catering is significant: Colorado Springs has one of the highest concentrations of military personnel in the US. Base catering events and off-base military family locations are strong markets.
• Pikes Peak events: Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Colorado Springs Balloon Classic — event vendor permits through the organizing bodies.
• Garden of the Gods and tourist corridor: High tourist traffic June–September generates strong demand near the park.
• CS Food Truck community: Growing scene — connect with local operators for spot-sharing and event coordination.