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Council adopts new food‑truck rules after restaurant and vendor input; votes 5–1–2
Summary
After revised language and public testimony from restaurant owners and mobile‑vendor representatives, the Plaquemines Parish Council adopted a food‑truck ordinance that sets operating hours, sanitation standards, and a process for location‑specific exceptions. Vote: 5 yes, 1 no, 2 abstentions.
The Plaquemines Parish Council approved a revised food‑truck ordinance Nov. 14 following months of drafting and public discussions. The legislation updates chapter 13 of the parish code to establish permitting requirements, operating hours (typical baseline 7 a.m.–10 p.m. unless otherwise approved by council for specific locations), and sanitation measures intended to align mobile vendors with public‑health standards.
A restaurant owner who spoke during public comment said the draft was “a pretty fair ordinance” that aimed for a level playing field but raised concerns about 24‑hour operations and restroom/facility requirements. The public testimony emphasized safety, grease traps and hand‑washing/sink standards; staff noted some food‑truck rigs can be outfitted with required fittings but that 24‑hour operation raises enforcement and facility issues.
Councilmembers discussed enforcement options and the ability to approve longer hours for particular locations where they would not interfere with neighborhoods or restaurants, and legal staff indicated location‑specific approvals were possible. The ordinance passed on a roll call: 5 in favor, 1 opposed (LaFrance), 2 abstentions (Jurisic and McCarty). Council members said they expect to revisit enforcement and technical permit details as the health department implements inspections.
