Benton Township considers requiring food truck license

BENTON TOWNSHIP — Benton Township trustees hope to set new rules for food trucks.

The board had its first reading of a mobile food vendor ordinance at its meeting Tuesday. Trustees did not take any action but will vote at the next meeting.

Should it pass, the ordinance will require food truck operators to receive a license from the township before they are allowed to serve customers within the township.

The proposed ordinance states the license is necessary to protect public health. It defines a mobile food vendor as, "any motorized or non-motorized vehicle, trailer, truck, booth, cart, concession stand, or other generally portable establishment from which food or drink is offered or sold for direct consumption."

Mobile food vendors must have liability insurance of at least $500,000, proof of passing a Berrien County Health Department inspection and cannot be behind on taxes. Vendors will have to renew annually and display the license prominently on their vehicle.

The ordinance also prohibits blocking traffic, amplified music and flashing lights. Mobile food vendors cannot operate between dusk and dawn.

Vendors must have their own trash bins, which are emptied daily. Additionally, vendors cannot use township or another property's power without permission.

First offenses warrant a $250 fine, and then $500 and $1,000 fines after each successive violation.