State Commissary rules · Texas
Texas (statewide) commissary requirements for food trucks and carts
The short answer from Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS): Usually. Under the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide, a vendor that doesn't meet the central preparation facility (CPF) exemption must operate from a CPF or other fixed establishment for supplies, cleaning and servicing.
- Commissary needed?
- Usually. Under the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide, a vendor that doesn't meet the central preparation facility (CPF) exemption must operate from a CPF or other fixed establishment for supplies, cleaning and servicing. Type II and III vendors can apply for a conditional exemption with a checklist.
- How often
- The DSHS guide requires a servicing-area activity log showing the date and time the vehicle got potable water and disposed of sewage. Local rules issued before July 2026 set their own frequency (San Antonio: once per calendar week).
- Paperwork
- If the CPF or servicing area isn't owned by the operator, a signed letter of authorization is required, and the latest CPF inspection must be kept on the vehicle when required.
Confirm with Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). This page summarises the official documents listed under Sources. Official page
Other things to know
- House Bill 2844 (2025): beginning July 1, 2026, all mobile food vendors must be licensed by DSHS instead of each city or county.
- DSHS application fees: Type I $309; Type II $618 plus $400 pre-licensing inspection; Type III $876 plus $500 pre-licensing inspection.
- Type I sells prepackaged foods; Type II sells prepackaged vacuum-sealed foods with hot or cold holding; Type III prepares and cooks on the vehicle.
Local rules in Texas
Questions people ask
Do I need a commissary for a food truck in Texas (statewide)?
Usually. Under the DSHS Mobile Food Vendor Guide, a vendor that doesn't meet the central preparation facility (CPF) exemption must operate from a CPF or other fixed establishment for supplies, cleaning and servicing. Type II and III vendors can apply for a conditional exemption with a checklist.
How often do I have to go to the commissary?
The DSHS guide requires a servicing-area activity log showing the date and time the vehicle got potable water and disposed of sewage. Local rules issued before July 2026 set their own frequency (San Antonio: once per calendar week).
What paperwork does Texas (statewide) want?
If the CPF or servicing area isn't owned by the operator, a signed letter of authorization is required, and the latest CPF inspection must be kept on the vehicle when required.
Where do I find a commissary in Texas (statewide)?
Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) doesn't publish a list. Restaurants, markets and shared kitchens with a valid food permit often act as commissaries; ask them, then have your inspector approve the pairing.
Sources
Last checked September 29, 2026.