What is a Pushcart?  

A pushcart is a mobile piece of equipment or vehicle which prepares, handles, or serves hotdogs.  However, other  foods may be served from a pushcart based on departmental approval.

What is a Mobile Food Unit?  

A mobile food unit is a vehicle mounted food service establishment designed to be readily moved.  It has a potable water system under pressure that furnishes hot and cold water for all food preparation, utensil cleaning, and handwashing.  A handwashing lavatory with hot and cold water, soap, and single-service towels must be provided as well as a single-compartment sink large enough to submerge, wash and rinse cooking utensils with splash back protection and drainboards. Water heating facilities must also be provided.

General Requirements:

Pushcarts (PUC) and Mobile Food Units (MFU) must comply with the NC Rules Governing the Sanitation of Restaurants and Other Food Handling Establishments (15A NCAC 18A .2600, Section .2638 General Requirements For Pushcarts And Mobile Food Units, Section .2639 Specific Requirements For Pushcarts, and Section .2640 Specific Requirements For Mobile Food Units.

• The Rules Governing the Sanitation of Restaurants and Other Food handling Establishments require that Pushcarts and Mobile Food Units obtain a permit prior to operation. No foods can be prepared at home or in any other non-permitted kitchen.
• To obtain a permit submit a complete Mobile Food Unit & Push Cart Packet.

Pushcarts and Mobile Food Units have to operate in conjunction with a permitted food establishment.  The permitted facility (commissary) must allow the PUC and/or MFU unit to return for servicing at least once each day of operation. The food establishment must hold a current permit and be able to supply the necessary services for any unit served.

For Rule Governing Mobile Food Units & Push Carts click "Rules & Guideline" located to the right of the screen.