Food Truck & Trailer Insurance in Ontario
Whether you're serving poutine at Ribfest or tacos at a farmers market, we'll help you get the right coverage for festival season and beyond.
Have Ready for Your Quote:
- Business name and legal structure
- Food truck or towed trailer details
- Vehicle year, make, model, and VIN
- List of festivals/events you attend
- Annual revenue estimate
- Equipment value (grills, fryers, etc.)
- Food handling certifications
- Current policy and claims history
For general guidance only. Food truck and trailer insurance requirements vary by event, location, and type of food service. Contact your broker for a tailored recommendation.
Coverage Types for Food Vendors
Commercial General Liability (CGL)
EssentialCovers third-party bodily injury and property damage claims - like a customer slipping near your truck or food poisoning allegations. Most festivals and events require a minimum of $2M CGL coverage.
Commercial Auto Insurance
RequiredCovers your food truck or tow vehicle while driving between locations. Personal auto policies exclude business use. Includes collision, comprehensive, and liability coverage.
Product Liability
CriticalProtects against claims arising from foodborne illness or allergic reactions. Essential for any business serving food to the public. Often bundled with your CGL policy.
Equipment & Contents
RecommendedCovers cooking equipment, refrigeration units, generators, point-of-sale systems, and inventory. Your auto policy does NOT cover equipment inside the truck.
Business Interruption
RecommendedCovers lost income if your truck breaks down or is damaged and you can't operate during peak festival season. Protects your revenue stream.
Liquor Liability
If ApplicableRequired if you serve alcohol (beer, wine, cocktails). Covers claims from incidents involving intoxicated patrons. Many festivals require this for vendors serving alcohol.
Hired & Non-Owned Auto
TrailersIf you tow a food trailer with your personal vehicle, this coverage extends liability protection to the trailer and covers gaps in your personal auto policy.
Food Truck vs. Food Trailer
Insurance requirements differ based on whether you operate a self-propelled food truck or a towed trailer. Click to expand and learn about coverage needs for each type.
Festival Season Coverage
Most food truck operators work seasonally, hitting festivals from spring through fall. We offer flexible coverage options that match your operating schedule.
Spring
April - May
Food truck rallies, farmers markets opening, outdoor festivals begin
Summer
June - August
Peak season: ribfests, cultural festivals, CNE, concerts, Canada Day events
Fall
September - October
Oktoberfest, harvest festivals, Halloween events, final outdoor markets
Winter
November - March
Limited: holiday markets, indoor events, catering gigs
Seasonal Policy Option
Many insurance markets already factor in seasonality for food truck operators. Ask us about coverage options that match your operating schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Roll?
Get a custom quote for your food truck or trailer. Coverage for festivals, events, and year-round operations.
Festival Requirements Checklist
- $2M Commercial General Liability
- Product Liability Coverage
- Event listed as Additional Insured
- Certificate of Insurance (COI)
- Health Department Certification
- WSIB Clearance (if employees)
- Liquor Liability (if serving alcohol)
Related Coverage
Did You Know?
Most festivals won't let you set up without a Certificate of Insurance (COI) naming them as an Additional Insured.
We can usually issue your COI same-day so you never miss an event!
ReadytoHittheRoad?
From ribfests to farmers markets, we'll make sure you're covered for every event.