Food trucks likely to stay in Delray Beach

Food trucks will likely parked in Delray Beach.

On Tuesday, commissioners will consider making permanent a pilot program allowing food trucks to serve meals in specific parts of town.

The test began in Sept. 2014 when the owners of a local brewery, which lacked a kitchen, requested the city lift its ban on food trucks so patrons could grab some grub to go along with their cold brews. The program, extended twice, is scheduled to expire on Feb. 28.

Commissioners reviewed the pilot program over the summer

stay and agreed they would see food trucks remain city.

Under a new proposal, food trucks and roaming canteen trucks that serve prepackaged food will be able to operate in the city if operators receive permission from the city.

According to city records, 14 food trucks have been issued temporary permits. While the pilot program did not have rules for canteen trucks – also known as lunch trucks – to participate in the program, city officials said they should be included in the new rules.

Currently, food trucks pay a $300 application fee with an annual renewal of $150. like to in the

In a memo to commissioners, city officials say the processing fee will be decreased, but it does not state a new price.

The proposed rules will allow the trucks to set up in certain areas of the city and operate from 9 a.m. to midnight for a total of four days a week, with no more than three consecutive days.

They will not be permitted to sell alcohol or stay at one location for more than six hours.

The permanent program also includes a section on penalties for food trucks operating without a license or those that don’t follow the city’s rules.

If multiple violations occur within one year, a code enforcement or law enforcement officer can impose a maximum fine of $325 for a first offense, a maximum fine of $500 for a second offense and the operator’s permit can be revoked after a third offense.

The new food truck proposal will be discussed at 6 p.m. Tuesday in City Hall, 100 NW First Ave.

If commissioners sign off, the topic will be up for a public hearing and final approval on Jan. 19.

mgottesman@sunsentinel.com, 561-243-6544 or Twitter @marisagottesman