Food Trucks - Food Truck Rodeo

The City of Southport invites you to be part of the 4th Annual Food Truck Rodeo on August 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the historic Fort Johnston – Southport Museum & Visitors Center. This beloved event celebrates the rich culinary diversity of our food truck community, attracting food lovers from across the region.

Showcase your unique menu and connect with a hungry, enthusiastic crowd in a beautiful waterfront setting. From savory to sweet, we welcome trucks offering a variety of delicious dishes. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this exciting culinary celebration!

REQUIRED PERMITS AND DOCUMENTATION

Please note that all food vendors participating in City of Southport events are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all required permits and approvals. It is the vendor's responsibility to determine what permits and approvals are required by the City of Southport, Brunswick County, and any other applicable agencies. Vendors who do not have all required permits, approvals, and documentation in place prior to the event will not be permitted to set up or operate.

Environmental Health Permit

All food vendors must possess a valid Environmental Health permit before operating at a City of Southport event.

• Vendors permitted by a North Carolina county as a mobile food unit or pushcart do not need an additional permit from Brunswick County Environmental Health (BCEH) for a one-day event but must report their operating schedule to that office.
• Vendors with Environmental Health permits issued outside North Carolina must contact Brunswick County Environmental Health to obtain reciprocity approval before operating.
• Vendors without an Environmental Health permit for their mobile food unit or pushcart must obtain a Temporary Food Establishment (TFE) Permit through BCEH.  TFE permits are issued only in conjunction with approved festivals, fairs, and similar events.

City of Southport Food Vendor Permit

All food vendors operating within the City of Southport must obtain a Southport Food Permit (truck, cart, trailer, or tent). Permit applications may be submitted through the City's online permitting portal: https://southportnc.portal.opengov.com/categories/1080/record-types/6457.

• Permit Fee: $100
• Permit Term: Valid for one year from the date of issuance 

Important Southport Food Vendor Application Instructions

• When asked whether you are participating in a City-run event, select "Yes."
• When prompted to upload a Minor Site Plan, upload the email confirming your acceptance into the City event.
• You will also be required to upload a copy of your valid Environmental Health permit as part of the City permit application.

Fire Inspection Permit

The Southport Food Vendor Permit application initiates the Fire Marshal review process when applicable.

• Permit Fee: $125
• Permit Term: Valid for one year from the date of issuance

Food vendors who require a Fire Inspection Permit must obtain approval prior to operating at the event.

• If your application indicates "Fire Marshal Review," this does not mean your Fire Inspection Permit has been approved. It only means that the Fire Marshal is reviewing your application and determining whether an inspection and permit are required.