| GET LICENSED TO SERVE AT COMMUNITY EVENTS |
If your business, church, school or group plans to serve food at an event that is open to the public, such as a festival, carnival or curbside barbecue, there’s something important you should know, whether you plan to sell or give away the item:
All food service vendors at public events are required to obtain a temporary food license from the Department of Public Health! These licenses are administered by the department’s Division of Environmental Health and Protection and are necessary in order to assure food being distributed to the public is safe and properly prepared.
Cost of the License
A temporary food license costs $50 if obtained more than 48 hours prior to the start of the event. This fee is waived for non-profit organizations, excluding social and country clubs, that document their tax-exempt status and obtain their permit at least 48 hours prior to the event. The fee is $60 for all applications received within 48 hours of the event.
Plan for Preparation
It’s important to know that food for events can be prepared on site or at
an approved facility, but that no food for public consumption can be prepared or stored in a private residence. Before applying for the license, the Division of Environmental Health and Protection recommends the applicant considers the following:
- Who will oversee the booth? This person should obtain a Food Safety certification.
- What will be on the menu – including ingredients, condiments and beverages?
- What is the structure of the booth, and what equipment will be needed to prepare ingredients and wash and sanitize utensils?
- How does the group plan to maintain hot and cold product temperatures before, during and after preparation?
- How will ingredients and prepared food items be stored?
How to Apply and Get Help
Temporary food license applications can be completed on the
County’s website. Staff assistance in completing this application is available from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday by calling 636-949-1800.
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