PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
New & Existing Food Establishments
Back to Food Safety Program
For complete information regarding permit renewal, opening a new
establishment, change of ownership, or remodeling/changing an existing
establishment, contact us at (509) 324-1560, ext. 2.
Obtaining a Permit
Any person wishing to serve or distribute food in Spokane County must
obtain approval or a permit to operate issued by the Spokane Regional
Health District (SRHD). For new establishments, permit applications
must be submitted at least fourteen days prior to the projected date of
opening or a penalty fee of 100% of the permit fee will be assessed.
Construction plans must be approved before beginning construction, or
an additional 50% of plan review fees will be charged. For change of
ownership of an existing establishment, applications must be submitted
far enough in advance to allow adequate time for processing and
approval prior to the ownership change. Permit processing time may vary
according to the type of operation and/or changes proposed.
Food Establishment Permit Application (PDF)
Commissary Agreement (PDF)
Fee Schedule (PDF) (NOTE: our office will determine your establishment's permit category)
Changes of Ownership
Under certain circumstances, SRHD can transfer a food
establishment's existing permit to a new owner. Permits can only be
transferred if the establishment's menu, operation, equipment, etc.
remain the same (or very close) to what we approved for the previous
owner. If you do plan to make changes, we may not be able to transfer
the existing permit. Our food program will determine whether or not
your ownership change qualifies for a permit transfer. To help us
expedite the process, provide us with the following information:
- What menu changes will you make?
- What equipment changes will you make?
- What procedural changes will you make?
- What other changes will you make?
In addition, we must consider whether or not the establishment has
been issued any variances (waivers). Since variances cannot be
transferred between owners, you will have to reapply for each variance.
If a variance is complex and/or requires that we reevaluate the
proposal, a variance processing fee will be charged.
If SRHD allows a permit transfer, the permit's expiration date stays
the same. It is not extended. There is an administrative fee for a
permit transfer. Prior to expiration of the transferred permit you will
be required to renew it at the full permit fee. (This fee varies based
on the permit category. Permit, variance, and administrative fees are
listed on our fee schedule.)
If we determine that the ownership change does not qualify for a
permit transfer, you must apply for a permit to operate at the full
permit fee. The expiration date of your permit will be determined based
on the date of issuance.
In addition to these fees, there is a penalty fee of $150.00 if you operate without a valid permit.
The Plan Review Process
Food establishment plan reviews and pre-opening inspections ensure
compliance with food code requirements. Prior to construction or
remodeling, food establishments must submit detailed design plans,
equipment specifications, and a menu with detailed food preparation
steps to SRHD for approval. Once construction is complete, a
pre-opening inspection is conducted to verify the establishment has
been constructed per the approved plans and all plan review approval
requirements have been met.
Plan Review Flow Chart (doc)
Plan Review Guidelines for Food Establishments (doc)
Plan Review Guidelines for Caterers (doc)
Plan Review Guidelines for Mobile Units (doc)
Food Establishment Regulations (Chapter 246-215 WAC) and other resources
The following items must be included in your plan review submittal:
We must receive all of the requested information in order to review
your application in a timely manner. Incomplete applications will not
be processed until all information has been submitted. Submission of a
complete plan review application will allow for faster processing. SRHD
may request additional information if necessary to complete the review
of your plans.
Other Agency Approvals
SHRD is not the only agency required to issue approval for food
establishments. The specific agencies involved vary depending upon your
location and type of operation.
View contact information for other agencies (doc) whose approval you may need before operating your food establishment.
|
