This information is for Mobile Food Vending Units (MFV) operating within the Austin city limits. The Austin Fire Department (AFD) conducts MFV inspections as part of the process for obtaining and maintaining annual MFV permits, issued by Austin Public Health (APH). Inspections are performed in conjunction with required health inspections. Both inspections are scheduled through APH. For more information on that process please visit: austintexas.gov/department/mobile-food-vendors
Effective May 1, 2022, the Austin Fire Department began enforcing Section 319, Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles, of the 2021 International Fire Code (IFC). The following quick reference table as be used as a guide to ensure all Mobile Vending Units (MVU) meet the minimum requirements. The fire code applies to all MVUs equipped with propane, as well as MVUs using electric appliances that produce smoke or grease laden vapors.
Fire Inspection Permit
Effective October 1, 2023, all MVUs equipped with propane, as well as MVUs using electric appliances that produce smoke or grease laden vapors, will require an inspection from the Austin Fire Department before being allowed to work within Austin city limits. This includes local MVUs as well as MVUs visiting from outside of Austin that are applying for either temporary or annual Mobile Food Vending permits issued by Austin Public Health. MVUs operating without an inspection from the Austin Fire Department will be shut down and a citation will be issued.
Fire Inspection Fee Assessment
Effective October 1, 2023, an additional inspection fee will be assessed by Austin Fire Department before rescheduling any failed, late, missed, or no-show for re-inspection. A “failure” is defined as not meeting all the applicable fire codes at the time of inspection. “Late” is defined as not being prepared for inspection 15 minutes after your scheduled appointment. A “no-show” or “missed inspection” is defined as the MVU not being present at the scheduled inspection day and time. It is highly encouraged that MVUs arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled appointment.
Below are links to help guide you through the fire inspection process.
View the AFD MVU Checklist | En Español for a list of requirements. Required forms must be completed prior to the date of the fire inspection.
The Propane System Inspection Report | En Español is required, annually, for all units with Liquid Propane Gas (LPG). It is required to be filled out by a licensed LPG plumber prior to the fire inspection.
The Electrical Inspection Form | En Español is required, annually, for units that obtained a new permit after May 1, 2022.
Please send us an email if you have any questions about the requirements.