Food Service Operations & Retail Food Establishments (Food Licenses)
Local health departments have the authority to enforce state standards for safety and sanitation in Food Service Operations and Retail Food Establishments. These standards can be found in the Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3717-1 and Chapter 3701-21 and in Ohio Revised Code 3717.
Fixed Location Food Service Operation / Retail Food Establishment Before you build or update your food service operation, you must first get your plans approved by the Health Department. It is best to discuss your plans with someone from the Environmental Division of the Allen County Health Department at 419-228-4457 before you begin. Many of the forms you will need can be downloaded from this page. To begin the process, you must complete the Plan Review Guide packet below.
Mobile Food Service Operation There are various types of mobile food service operations. Licensing requirements can be found in Ohio Administrative Code Chapter 3717-1 and/or 3701-21. The Allen County Health Department can provide a Mobile Food Service Operation Guide. Questions can be directed to the Environmental Division of the Allen County Health Department at 419-228-4457.
Temporary Food Service Operation All persons wishing to obtain a Temporary Food Service license must complete a questionnaire, booth layout plan and license application form. Regulations require that this information, license application and license fee be collected and received at least ten (10) days prior to an event.
Vending Food Service Operation All persons wishing to obtain a Vending license must complete an application and return it to Allen County Public Health along with the licensing fee prior to the sale of products.
Education and Information
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Rules/Regulations
Allen County Board of Health Regulation
Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3717
Ohio Department of Health – Chapter 3717-1 – Ohio Uniform Food Safety Code
Ohio Department of Health – Chapter 3701-21 – Food Service Operations
Ohio Department of Agriculture – Chapter 901 – Retail Food Establishments
ServeSafe Classes
ServeSafe classes are scheduled periodically for food service professionals. Contact the Environmental Division of the Allen County Health Department at 419-228-4457 for the next scheduled class.
Helpful Links