Fairfax Planning Commission Pushes for Greater Flexibility in Food Truck Operating Hours – What It Means for Local Vendors

The Fairfax County Planning Commission is considering changes to food truck regulations. Currently, food trucks can only stay in one spot for four hours. At a recent meeting, commissioners proposed that the Board of Supervisors look into extending this time limit.

This suggestion came from commission chairman Phil Niedzielski-Eicher, standing in for Alis Wang, who couldn’t attend. The whole planning commission agreed and sent a letter to the supervisors. They want the county staff to explore options for changing the rules.

Some commissioners believe that longer time limits would help food trucks. Hunter Mill District Commissioner John Carter noted that these trucks are often start-ups needing visibility. Sully District Commissioner Evelyn Spain added that food trucks can create a lively atmosphere at community events, giving people a place to gather.

The commission’s letter urges the county to ease its rules for food trucks and special events. These changes could allow more flexibility and reduce the administrative burden on food truck vendors. The Board of Supervisors is set to discuss this proposal on February 4.

Currently, food trucks mainly operate in larger commercial and industrial areas. They can also set up in certain residential spots, like near community pools, but only for 12 days a year. The proposed changes would expand this, allowing food trucks on smaller commercial lots and increasing their presence in residential neighborhoods from 12 to 32 days per year.

For special events, the staff suggests a new system for permits that considers the type and length of the event. For a small event, like a store opening, a food truck could operate for eight hours and serve up to 150 people for a fee of $120, which is half of the current rate for special events.

Longer events, like holiday markets or cultural festivals, could run for up to 60 days, an increase from the current 21-day limit. However, regulations for circuses and carnivals would remain the same, with permits for these larger events costing $240.