Thomasville City Plans to Propose New Ordinance for Food Trucks Operating on Private Property

Banks Italian Ice Truck in Thomasville, GAPhoto byRoderick Banks

According to the City of Thomasville website, a public information session has been scheduled for a new proposal that affects food trucks operating on private property. This Mobile Food Service Unit Ordinance proposal will be held on July 27, 2023, at 5:30 pm at City Hall (144 East Jackson Street).

A Brief Look at the Food Truck Industry

Food truck owners are afforded the advantage to create original food designs with a wider customer base. Mobile food service gives flexibility and scalability in how you can execute and collaborate with your community – both in person and through social media. However, food trucks are often viewed by local restaurants, and residents as problematic if not properly regulated so it is all-important to have harmony when proposing ordinances for mobile food operations.

What to Expect in New Mobile Food Service Unit Proposal

Typically, local governments incorporate ordinances that distinguish public and private property for the purposes of mobile food unit operations. Many ordinances typically limit food trucks to non-residential areas and determine distancing specifications between the mobile food units and operating restaurants and/or residential areas. Ordinances will limit hours or days of operation and sanitation conditions. Most importantly mobile food trucks must also adhere to local public health department policies for food service businesses.

Mobile Food TruckPhoto byKampus Production

Market Research

According to Grandview Research, The U.S. food truck services market size was valued at USD 1.16 billion in 2021 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% from 2022 to 2030. A rapid surge in gastronomy and the rising demand among youth for novel dining experiences over traditional dining in brick-and-mortar restaurants are the factors driving the growth. Furthermore, the growing demand for food on the go along with the rising popularity of the mobile lifestyle are other major factors driving the growth. Read more here.

Food Truck Guides and Resources:

• American Planning Association published a Regulating Food Truck guide for mobile food truck owners and city planners. View Here
• Fairburn, GA., City Food Truck Ordinances. View Here
• City of Alpharetta Food Truck Ordinances. View Here

Interested parties are welcome to attend. For more information, please contact Kenny Thompson, City Planner, at 229-227-4118.