Fetgatter Celebrates New Food Truck Fire Suppression Permitting Process: Enhancing Safety and Success for Mobile Food Vendors

Oklahoma City has taken a big step for food trucks. Rep. Scott Fetgatter recently praised the Oklahoma Liquefied Petroleum Gas Administration (OLPGA) for rolling out a streamlined food truck permitting process. This effort comes from the new law in House Bill 2459, which starts on November 1.

Now, food trucks that use propane or any related equipment must have a permit from the OLPGA. They will also need to pass an annual inspection. Fetgatter emphasized that this law simplifies the process for food truck operators, who previously had to deal with multiple permits from different cities. The aim is to keep both workers and the public safe by ensuring that food trucks are properly equipped with fire suppression systems.

To comply, food truck operators need to submit their permit applications to the OLPGA by October 31. They have until November 1, 2026, to complete their physical inspections, with both permits needing renewal every year. If applications come in late, operators may face temporary delays while waiting for approval.

The OLPGA collaborated with lawmakers and food truck operators to establish this new system. Their goal was to support business continuity and minimize disruptions while meeting safety requirements. They implemented emergency rules that have received a thumbs-up from the Rules Committee, allowing them to act swiftly without formal approval from the Board.

Besides the new permitting process, food trucks that produce grease-laden vapors must secure inspections from the State Fire Marshal and be licensed by the State Department of Health. Local regulations also apply.

Recent surveys show that food trucks are becoming more popular. In 2022, a report indicated that the food truck industry grew by over 10% in the U.S., showing the demand for convenient, mobile dining options. As cities adapt, these regulations aim not just to support businesses but also to protect public safety.

For more details on the application process, you can visit the OLPGA’s website here.

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