Texas State Law Offers Hope for Food Truck Revival in Haltom City

Food trucks, popular attractions at events offering diverse dining options, have become increasingly scarce in Haltom City due to restrictive local ordinances enacted several years ago. City council members passed regulations so complicated and demanding that they actively discourage participation by food truck owners, with one council person openly stating that food trucks competed with local restaurants, revealing clear bias against mobile vendors.

The existing permit application in Haltom City is a four-page, single-spaced document filled with legal terminology that requires reading, signing, and notarization before approval. Permits cost $250 and must be renewed annually. While some application requirements like name, address, vehicle registration, license, and insurance information are standard, others present significant obstacles. The most burdensome requirement demands written permission from the property owner where the food truck will operate, which proves difficult or impossible when property owners are non-local or have no incentive to authorize temporary food vendors at shopping centers or strip malls.

Since Haltom City leaders enacted these restrictive rules, the number of food trucks applying for permits has steadily declined. Back in 2021, during public hearings on the permitting regulations, the Haltom United Business Alliance objected, warning that the laws would create insurmountable roadblocks for food trucks wanting to conduct business in Haltom City. The regulations have forced residents who want food trucks for special events like weddings or festivals to either host their events in other cities or navigate the burdensome local requirements.

A new state law, Texas House Bill 2844, promises to minimize red tape and simplify the permitting process for food truck owners throughout Texas, including Haltom City. Dubbed the "Mobile Food Vendor Regulatory Consistency Act," the legislation passed on June 20, 2025, and was signed into law by Texas Governor Greg Abbott. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and establishes a single statewide license through the Texas Department of State Health Services, eliminating conflicting local rules and fees that hinder food truck operation.

According to HUBA Communications Director Joe Palmer, the new state legislation gives Haltom City an opportunity to welcome food trucks back within city limits. Palmer emphasized that mobile food vendors represent valuable small businesses that city leaders should actively encourage. With state lawmakers eliminating burdensome permits and unnecessary fees, food truck owners can redirect their time, energy, and financial resources toward business improvement and expansion, creating benefits for the entire community.

However, Palmer expressed concern that Haltom City leaders might continue imposing obstacles despite the new legislation. The law preserves some local control, allowing cities to enforce rules regarding how, when, and where food trucks operate, including the controversial requirement for property owner permission. The community will need to observe how Haltom City implements the new state guidelines and whether local officials embrace the opportunity to support small business growth through mobile food vendors.