How to Start a Concession Machine Rental Business From Home
Popcorn poppers, cotton candy machines, snow cone makers and chocolate fountains are party staples. With a dry garage or shed for storage, renting them out can be a low-staff side business.
What the Machines Cost
Commercial-grade machines cost far more than the toy-store versions. Concession maker Gold Medal Products lists typical costs of about $1,000 for its Sno-King snow cone machine, $1,200 for a 6-ounce rental popcorn popper and $1,400 for an Auto Breeze cotton candy machine (figures from its rental guide, checked October 2026). Gold Medal also suggests pricing those units at roughly $50–$80 per day.
Start with one or two machines and add more as bookings justify them.
What Renters Pay
Published rates vary by market. Las Vegas–area rental company Fun City Foods, for example, lists (as of October 2026):
- Popcorn machines: about $85–$160 per day, depending on kettle size and cart
- Cotton candy machines: about $85 per day tabletop, up to $170 with a cart and lighted dome
- Snow cone machines: about $85 per day; shave ice machines about $120
- Chocolate fountains: about $150 per day
Check what competitors near you charge before setting prices.
Supplies Add-Ons
Fun City also sells floss sugar, cones, snow cone syrup, cups, popcorn bags and chocolate discs. Bundled “party packs” save customers a store run.
Cleaning, Storage and Deposits
Clean and inspect every machine as soon as it comes back: kettles, spinner heads, ice shavers and fountain augers all collect sugar, oil or chocolate. Fun City notes it may charge a cleaning fee if anything other than recommended popcorn and oil goes in the kettle. Store machines covered and off the floor.
A written rental agreement and a refundable damage deposit protect you if a machine comes back broken or dirty. Have a professional review your agreement.
Health Rules and Insurance
Renting equipment differs from serving food yourself. For example: the McHenry County, Illinois, health department says most public special events need a temporary food permit, while some low-risk offerings such as popcorn may be exempt under conditions. Rules vary by state, county and city, so call your local health department before you start, especially if you plan to staff machines. Ask an insurance agent about liability and equipment coverage.
Safety Notes
- Hot kettles: Popcorn kettles and fountain heaters get very hot. Give renters written instructions and keep kids back.
- Electrical loads: Fun City says most of its popcorn, cotton candy and snow cone rentals run on a standard 120-volt, 15-amp outlet, and warns that extension cords can cause heat or motor problems. The Grand River Dam Authority advises plugging only one heat-producing appliance into an outlet at a time.
- Heavy lifting: Carts and machines are bulky. Use a hand truck or ramp, lift with a partner and secure machines in your vehicle.
Booking
Use an online booking calendar and a clear price sheet, and confirm outlet access and indoor/outdoor setup before every rental.
More on Garage Business Blueprint
- How to Start a Party Rental Business From Your Garage
- Damage Deposits and Rental Agreements for a Small Equipment Rental Business
- How to Start a Photo Booth Rental Business From Home
