Applies to all US food trucks and mobile food vendors regardless of state
General Liability & Vehicle Insurance Documentation
Combined general liability, commercial auto, and product liability insurance documentation for food truck operations, including event-specific certificates of insurance.
What this document covers
Food trucks require a layered insurance approach that most new operators underestimate. You need commercial general liability (CGL) for customer injuries at your service location, commercial auto insurance for the vehicle itself, product liability for foodborne illness claims, and often inland marine coverage for your cooking equipment. Most cities require proof of insurance ($1M minimum CGL) as a condition of your mobile food vendor permit, and virtually every event, festival, or private venue will require a certificate of insurance (COI) naming them as additional insured. This document template standardizes your insurance program, COI request procedures, and claim management for the complex risk profile of mobile food service.
Key sections included
- Commercial general liability coverage requirements
- Commercial auto insurance for food truck vehicle
- Product liability for foodborne illness claims
- Inland marine coverage for mobile equipment
- Certificate of insurance (COI) management
- Event-specific insurance requirements
- Claim reporting and management procedures
- Annual insurance review checklist
Frequently asked questions
How much general liability insurance do I need?
Most jurisdictions and events require a minimum of $1,000,000 per occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate. Some high-profile events or municipal permits require $5,000,000 in umbrella/excess coverage. A typical food truck CGL policy costs $2,000–$4,000 per year.
Do I need separate auto insurance for my food truck?
Yes. Personal auto insurance does not cover commercial vehicles or business use. You need a commercial auto policy specifically for your food truck. If the truck is a converted vehicle, make sure the policy covers the modifications and installed equipment.
What is a certificate of insurance (COI) and how do I get one?
A COI is a document from your insurer proving you have active coverage. Events and venues require COIs naming them as 'additional insured.' Your insurance agent can issue COIs — typically within 24-48 hours. Build in lead time when applying for events.
Document details
- Legal basis
- State motor vehicle insurance codes; FDA Food Code 2022 §8-303.10; local mobile food vendor permit requirements; event venue contract requirements
- Enforced by
- State departments of insurance; local permitting authorities; event organizers
- Penalty for absence
- Permit denial or revocation in most jurisdictions. Inability to operate at events or on public property. Personal liability for all claims (potentially bankrupting). State fines for operating an uninsured commercial vehicle: $500–$5,000+. Commissary facilities may deny access without proof of insurance.
- Category
- Insurance & Liability
Document preview
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DocketPack — Generated Document
General Liability & Vehicle Insurance Documentation
Legal Reference
State motor vehicle insurance codes; FDA Food Code 2022 §8-303.10; local mobile food vendor permit requirements; event venue contract requirements. Enforced by State departments of insurance; local permitting authorities; event organizers.
1. Commercial general liability coverage requirements
2. Commercial auto insurance for food truck vehicle
3. Product liability for foodborne illness claims
4. Inland marine coverage for mobile equipment
+ 4 more sections...
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