Mobile Food Vendor Licensing

Important Licensing Change

Effective July 1, 2026, the City of Ennis no longer issues or renews mobile food vendor health permits.

Under Texas House Bill 2844, all mobile food vendors operating in Texas must obtain a Mobile Food Vendor license from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). A separate DSHS license is required for each food vending vehicle.

How to Apply

Mobile food vendors must submit their application and required fees through the DSHS Online Licensing Services system. After the application has been processed, DSHS will provide instructions for scheduling any required pre-licensing inspection.

Note: Vendors who do not currently hold a valid mobile food vendor license may not operate until the DSHS licensing and inspection requirements have been completed.

Please see the guidelines below:

• Texas Department of State Health Services - Mobile Food Vendor Guide_English

• Texas Department of State Health Services - Mobile Food Vendor Guide_Spanish

Before Applying

Applicants should be prepared to provide documentation that may include:

• A proposed menu and food sources

• Food manager and food handler certifications (when required)

• Central preparation facility or servicing-area documentation

• Proof of insurance and Texas Department of Transportation information

• Employee health policies and operational itinerary

Licensing requirements and fees vary depending on whether the operation is classified as a Type I, Type II, or Type III mobile food vendor.

Additional Information

For licensing applications, inspections, fees, or operational requirements, please contact:

Texas Department of State Health Services

Retail Food Safety Operations
Phone: 512-406-2644