Following an executive order by Governor Gavin Newsom Caltrans will allow food trucks to temporarily set up operation in state rest areas during the COVID-19 public health emergency to help provide access to food for highway truck drivers and motorists, and provide opportunities to food truck operators. Rebecca Havely has more information…
The goal of the executive order allowing food trucks to operate in rest areas is to increase the number of convenient food options available to truck drivers and motorists. The order also provides business opportunities for food truck operators who are hit hard by the stay-at-home order. Food truck operators can apply for a temporary encroachment easement permit to operate at one or more of the state’s 86 rest areas. Each food truck is responsible for all waste cleanup and removal, following all food-safety rules, and maintaining social distancing among employees and customers.
Operators need to specify the rest areas for which they are applying, and the permits will be valid through June 15. Because food trucks are licensed locally, each truck can only operate within the locality for which they are licensed and permitted by the local health inspector.
Caltrans will begin accepting applications immediately. Applicants can submit requests for specific rest areas at the website: dot.ca.gov/programs/traffic-operations/food-trucks-rest-areas
The state rest area system was created to promote greater safety and convenience on state highways. For details on each rest area, visit QuickMap at quickmap.dot.ca.gov. In the left-most QuickMap window, click on Options and then click the Rest Area box. A simple map of the rest areas is also attached to this email.
Because many rest areas have been established in remote areas with fewer roadside services available, Caltrans cannot guarantee every rest area will be served by a food truck and at what frequency. Lists of participating food trucks will be posted on the Caltrans website.
