A new state law set to take effect on July 1, 2026, may give Haltom City a fresh opportunity to attract food trucks, which have been largely absent from the city due to burdensome local regulations. Texas House Bill 2844, known as the "Mobile Food Vendor Regulatory Consistency Act," was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025. The legislation promises to simplify the permitting process by establishing a single statewide license issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services, eliminating the complex local rules and fees that have discouraged food truck owners in Haltom City.
For years, Haltom City has struggled to attract food trucks after city council members passed ordinances with stringent requirements. The current permit application is a four-page, single-spaced document that must be notarized, with an annual fee of $250. Among the most onerous requirements is the need for written permission from the property owner where the truck will operate—a condition that is often difficult or impossible to fulfill, especially for absentee landowners of shopping centers or strip malls.
In 2021, the Haltom United Business Alliance (HUBA) objected to the regulations during a public hearing, arguing that the rules would create insurmountable barriers for food trucks. Since then, the number of food truck permits has steadily declined. Residents and event organizers who want to bring in food trucks for weddings or festivals have had to either go to another city or navigate the burdensome process.
Joe Palmer, Communications Director for HUBA, expressed optimism about the new state law. "Mobile food vendors are valuable small businesses, and Haltom City leaders need to do everything in their power to encourage them," Palmer said. "Now that state lawmakers have passed legislation eliminating the burdensome permits and unnecessary fees, food truck owners can funnel their time, energy and money into improving and expanding their businesses. And that's a big win all around."
However, Palmer noted that the law preserves some local control, allowing cities to enforce rules on how, when, and where food trucks can operate. He expressed concern that Haltom City leaders might continue to impose obstacles, particularly the requirement for property owner permission. The city has not yet announced how it will adjust its regulations in response to the new law.
The implications for Haltom City are significant. The city, located between Dallas and Fort Worth, has seen a decline in small businesses due to outdated and restrictive zoning. The Haltom United Business Alliance has been advocating for a more business-friendly environment, and the new state law could be a catalyst for change. By reducing red tape, food trucks could bring economic activity and dining diversity to the city, benefiting residents and local events.
