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Food Stands Need Licenses 

            While having a small hot dog stand at a festival may not seem like a big deal, it may still need a temporary food license.

             Dianna L. Schafer, Health of the Sanilac County Health Department would like to remind all area citizens of temporary food service license requirements.

             An event that serves food to the public may require a license as a temporary food service establishment.  Michigan’s Food Law, Act 92, P.A. 2000, requires a food service license when potentially hazardous food or beverage is served or prepared for immediate consumption or consumption on the premises.

            If a food event is held in a facility that already has an annual license from the health department, then the person may operate under that fixed license if the license or license holder so allows.  If not, then the individual will need to obtain a temporary food license.  Some facilities such as township or church halls or parks may or may not have a license, so it is important to check the status of the location or facility being used for an event.

     If a food service event does require a license and the facility does not already have one, then a temporary food service license must be obtained.  A temporary food service license can be obtained from the health department in the county where the event will take place.  A fee will be charged depending on the person or type of organization applying for the license.  Applications for a license should be submitted at least one week prior to the event.  A late fee will be charged for applications submitted less than 48 hours prior to the event.  Persons operating without a license will be subject to a fine.  A set of guidelines for operating a temporary food service establishment is given to each applicant.

     Once a license application has been completed, the health department will visit the site on the first day when the food will actually be served.  If all applicable standards are met, the health department sanitarian will sign the license authorizing the serving of food to the public.  A temporary food service license can be valid for up to fourteen consecutive days in one location. 

     One of the primary responsibilities of the health department is to ensure the safety of food being served to the public.  Food service inspections concentrate on providing safe food and the utilization of sanitary practices in food preparation.  Food sanitation is crucial to the public’s health.  Each year, many people become ill, some critically, as the result of unsafe foods or foods prepared improperly.

     Michigan’s Food Law does provide a few exceptions in the requirements for licensing of food service events, such as:  home-prepared foods (potlucks) served by nonprofit organizations as part of a meeting or fundraising event; and under certain circumstances, facilities already licensed by the Michigan Department of Agriculture.

     Examples of events that do require a food service license include:  food events at festivals or craft shows; food stands at rallies or sporting events; and fundraisers for persons, and organizations or political offices.  A food service license is required even if the organization is nonprofit and the food is free.  Individuals and organizations planning an event where food is to be served or prepared for public consumption should contact the health department to determine if Michigan law requires a food service license.

     For more information call the Sanilac County Health Department at 810.648.4098 ext. 148 and speak with Carla Mitchell, Food Sanitarian.