In short, yes — you’ll almost certainly need a business license. You may also require a permit if you plan to operate your cart on public property such as streets, sidewalks, parks, or other public areas. For details on local by-laws, licensing fees, and specific requirements, contact your local City Hall or visit your city’s website. For more information on getting a business license, refer to the Obtaining a Business License section of this guide.

In short, yes — you’ll most likely need approval from your local Health Department before you begin. Contact them directly for detailed information. Most cities list their Health Department on their official website; if so, refer to the Health Department Links section of this Business Guide. You can also use the links and instructions below to locate your local county Health Department online. Be sure to review the specific health code requirements for hot dog carts, as well as any inspection fees that may apply. For more details, see the sections Obtaining Health Department Approvals and Health Guidelines in this guide.

A strong location is one with heavy foot traffic and little to no competition, as mentioned earlier. For more details, see the Searching for a Location section. You’ll also find a comprehensive list of potential hot dog cart spots in the Location Suggestions subsection under Location Ideas.

In short, yes — all large carts come with a trailer hitch, allowing them to be towed by a vehicle on the road. However, it’s usually best to choose a good spot and stay put so customers know where to find you. This consistency helps you build a loyal base of regulars.

You can still move your cart during slower hours to attend special events, such as evening or weekend gatherings, to boost your income. Just make sure to maintain a steady schedule at your main location.

For more on regular and special event locations, see the Finding a Location section. You can also check Tips for Success for practical advice on running your vendor cart business efficiently.

In short, yes — but your local Health Department may not allow it. Vendor carts serving certain pre-cooked meats, like chicken or pork ribs, could be prohibited from operating at some events. It’s best to check with your local Health Department before preparing these foods.

In a word, yes. Coffee pots may be found on our Cart Accessories page, which can be found in the top right corner of www.willydogs.com. It would be necessary to have a 110-volt alternating current power supply outlet close by.