Could food trucks soon be allowed in Park Township? Here's what we know

PARK TWP. — Park Township could soon join other local municipalities in allowing food trucks to operate within its boundaries.

The topic was discussed during the township’s June meeting following an increasing number of questions from citizens and is set to come up again at a meeting in late July. It also came up following the completion of the township’s new pickleball courts, which opens the doors for additional events where food trucks could be featured.

Meika Weiss, Park Township’s community development director, said a new ordinance could allow food trucks, which are currently not permitted anywhere in the township, to operate in certain areas.

“Park Township has had an increasing number of questions regarding food trucks and requests to be able to place them in various places around the township,” Weiss wrote in an email. “It’s been on the list to address for a couple of years, as we’ve worked through short-term rentals and the master plan.”

Should the ordinance pass in its current form, general food trucks would be allowed on commercial properties with operating businesses and on non-commercial properties that are usually open for public or semi-public uses.

“They would also be allowed for a very limited number of private parties in residential areas with certain restrictions to prevent nuisance,” Weiss said. “Permanent or semi-permanent food truck installations could be approved by the planning commission as a special use.”

There would also be provisions to allow food trucks at block parties and in added locations during larger festivals like Tulip Time.

There will be a public hearing on the ordinance at the July 25 planning commission meeting, where it will either be approved or sent back for further edits. If approved, Weiss said it will then be forwarded to the township board for approval at their August meeting.

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In Holland, food trucks were for a long time limited in their availability. In November 2022, Holland City Council amended its Unified Development Ordinance to give food trucks more opportunities to operate downtown. The change broadened regulations in downtown Holland and in commercial zones, while keeping restrictions near residences.

— Contact reporter Austin Metz at ametz@hollandsentinel.com.