- 1). Visit city hall for the information that you need to start your business. Find out what types of licenses and permits you will need to obtain for a food cart business in your area. Determine if the permit is for one location only, or if you have a choice of places where you can set up business each day. Get a business name, and find out if they require certain types of insurance and inspection processes because you will be handling food. Be sure to mention whether you intend to offer home-baked items as well.
- 2). Speak with an accountant about your unique financial situation. Find out what types of information you will need to keep throughout each year to determine how much in taxes you will need to pay. Ask about specific deductions you can take for a hot dog stand business, such as food, napkins and insurance costs.
Stop by your insurance agent's office to discuss your needs with her. Find out if you can add your insurance needs onto your homeowners' insurance, and if the fees will be affordable. Remember that you can shop around for the best rates. - 3). Write a business plan. Perform market research to determine where the best location for a food cart business is, and what your potential customers will want from you. Use this plan to stay on track with your goals for the hot dog stand. You may also need to provide a written business plan to your bank or credit union if you decide to obtain a loan to start the business.
- 4). Acquire the stand or truck to use for your hot dog business. Be sure that it is equipped for cooking, as well as with refrigeration. Determine whether there is a proper sized counter for placing cooked food as well as a place for condiments where customers can easily reach them.
- 5). Keep your business running smoothly by having necessary items on hand so that you do not have to shut down the stand during peak business hours and inconvenience your customers. Have a good stock of condiments and other necessities before heading out for the day. Be sure that you have plenty of cold drinks available during hot weather, and hot drinks during cold weather if you choose. Price menu items reasonably, taking into consideration all business expenses.