Sandy Springs streamlines food truck rules

The Sandy Springs City Council has adopted changes to its zoning ordinance that officials say streamline the process for permitting food trucks in the city. AJC FILE

The Sandy Springs City Council has adopted changes to its zoning ordinance that officials say streamline the process for permitting food trucks in the city. AJC FILE

Food trucks will be allowed to operate in commercial, mixed-use and Perimeter-zoned properties in Sandy Springs under changes to the zoning ordinance approved by the City Council.

“The demand for mobile food units has grown, and our process to regulate food trucks on private property through our special events permitting process was time-consuming and cumbersome for both the business owner and staff,” said Sandy Springs Assistant City Manager Jim Tolbert. “Under the new ordinance, the process is streamlined and ensures all needed requirements are met.”

According to the ordinance, a food-truck operator can obtain a yearly permit to operate at up to five different properties, with the option to apply for multiple permits. The applicant must have a valid city business license, a valid health permit from the Georgia Department of Public Health, and written permission from a property owner, and must comply with Fire Department codes.

Sales of alcohol and items other than food are prohibited, and there are restrictions on tenting, music, noise and signage. No food truck will be permitted within 100 feet of a single-family or two-family residence, nor will it be allowed on the same property as an existing restaurant, unless the owner also owns the truck.