The City of Cleveland announced on March 23 that it will hold its fourth annual “Food Truck Rodeo” beginning Tuesday, March 24. The event is designed as a one-stop location for food truck and hot dog cart owners to complete all necessary permitting requirements. It will run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, on East Mall Drive.
The event aims to simplify the process for local entrepreneurs seeking permits, allowing them to operate in fourteen municipalities across Cuyahoga County for a full year. Mayor Justin M. Bibb said, “One of my commitments upon taking office was to make it easier for our local business owners to do business in the City. The Food Truck Rodeo is an innovative example of how we have adapted and simplified our processes in City Hall to better meet the needs of our small business community.” Bibb added that participation has grown from about fifty trucks in its first year to more than one hundred forty last year.
No appointments are required, but attendees must bring proof of a certified liquified petroleum pressure test, completion of an LP safety course, liability insurance, and payment (card, check or money order) covering $150 in permit fees and state-required propane handling certification. Upon arrival via St. Clair Avenue between Mall B and Public Auditorium, participants will be directed through vehicle inspections—including checks on carbon monoxide detectors and ventilation—and complete documentation with assistance from several city departments.
Representatives from the Division of Fire, Department of Public Works, Division of Assessments & Licenses, Department of Public Health as well as the Cuyahoga County Board of Health will be present throughout the process. Northfield Propane will provide on-site pressure testing each day until 1:00 p.m., while Parma Fire Department staff will also assist with their own permit procedures.
Capt. David Telban, Fire Marshal for Cleveland Division of Fire said: “The level of interest in our Food Truck Rodeo has grown tremendously – so much so that other fire departments have reached out to learn our system to host similar ‘Rodeos’ in their cities. We look forward to hosting another successful event this year and welcome everyone with open arms.”
Business owners seeking more information can contact the Cleveland Fire Prevention Bureau at fireprevention@clevelandohio.gov or (216)-664-6652.
