he City of Brampton is re-evaluating its food truck regulations as interest in mobile food businesses continues to rise, despite past concerns from downtown brick-and-mortar restaurants.
A new report heading to Brampton City Council this week suggests potential changes to the city’s controversial food truck program, which faced opposition last summer from the Downtown Brampton BIA. The Downtown Brampton Food District, launched in 2023, initially had the BIA’s backing, allowing food trucks to operate along Main Street near Diplock Lane. However, in June 2024, the BIA withdrew its support, citing concerns from local restaurant owners about noise, garbage, and lost revenue.
With food truck interest growing, the city’s Licensing Enforcement unit is conducting a proactive review of current regulations to ensure they remain balanced, effective, and aligned with Brampton’s economic goals. The review will incorporate stakeholder input and focus on business innovation, public safety, and zoning compliance.
Under the current bylaws, food truck operators must:
- Obtain a letter of permission from the Downtown Brampton BIA to operate in the defined downtown area, unless part of a special event.
- Comply with municipal and provincial food handling and licensing regulations.
- Follow zoning restrictions, which dictate how many food trucks can operate on private properties like plazas and strip malls.
- Avoid selling refreshments within 100 metres of schools, parks, and intersections, and within 30 metres of school grounds or public parks.
There are currently 18 Class C refreshment vehicle (food truck) licenses and 60 refreshment driver/operator licenses in Brampton. The city also has over a dozen food truck hubs, including the Diplock Lane location, and the report anticipates a rise in applications for new food truck hubs.
The report will be presented to Brampton City Council’s committee on Wednesday, with staff expected to provide further updates following the review.