Regional partnership helps food truck operators serve safely across southern Alberta

Before the grills fire up and the crowds line up, fire safety comes first.

As food truck season gets underway, Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) is highlighting the success of a regional partnership that is helping mobile food vendors operate safely and more efficiently across southern Alberta. 

LFES has partnered with Coaldale & District Emergency Services and Taber Fire Department to create a shared inspection approach for Mobile Cooking Operations, commonly known as food trucks. 

Through the partnership, operators only need to complete one annual fire inspection to operate in Lethbridge, Coaldale and Taber. An inspection completed in one participating community is recognized by all three departments. 

The program was launched in 2025 to support the growing number of mobile food vendors serving at festivals, markets and community events across the region. In its first year, approximately 60 food trucks were inspected through the partnership. This year, the program is on track to see similar results, with approximately 40 food trucks already inspected. 

“Food trucks are a valued part of community events,” says Neill O’Grady, Fire Prevention Officer with LFES. “This partnership helps operators by reducing regulatory duplication between our communities, while ensuring safe operation for the operators and public.”

Events like Food Truck Fridays at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden bring food trucks together in busy public spaces. The regional inspection partnership helps operators prepare for these events before the summer season gets into full swing.

Food trucks have a unique risk profile because of their mobility and setup at busy events. At the same time, they face many of the same fire safety challenges as traditional restaurants, but in a much smaller footprint. 

Inspections are intended to be straightforward for operators who maintain safe equipment and follow established safety standards. Feedback from operators has been positive, with many expressing appreciation for the guidance and consistency the program provides. 

Any food truck operating in the City of Lethbridge is required to complete an annual inspection by a Fire Prevention Officer. Once approved, operators are issued a window decal and certificate authorizing operation for the year. There is currently no fee for the initial inspection and approval.

Operators preparing for inspection are encouraged to review the LFES Food Truck Inspection Information Guide and complete the LFES Food Truck Inspection Request Form. 

A current list of inspected and approved food trucks is available at Lethbridge.ca/fire. 

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