Obtain a Business License and Location Permit
The next step is to get a business license from your local city government. This will generally cost anywhere from $60.00 to $400.00 depending on your city. The larger cities tend to charge more for these than do the smaller towns.
The municipal government may also require that you to obtain a separate vendor location permit for each and every location that you plan to use. Even some large cities like New York have a limited number of approved vendor locations available and there is often a waiting list. So you will need to apply and get on that list.
Special Event permits may also be required for setting up your food cart at special temporary locations such as those listed above in the locations section.
Check with your local municipal authorities about all three of these types of licenses. In some places, all three are required. In other places, only the business license is needed. At the same time, be sure to check on the local by-laws for food vendors. This can often even be done online at the city's web site. A bit of research in these areas can make sure that you avoid fines and even the loss of your business license.