What are the Requirements for Food Safety in Orange County in California?
1. Food establishments must obtain a valid and current permit from the Orange County Health Care Agency (OCHCA) Environmental Health Division.
2. All food employees must be trained in food safety and food hygiene, with documentation kept on file at the establishment.
3. All food must be obtained from approved sources.
4. All food must be stored, prepared, held, and served in a manner that prevents contamination and/or cross-contamination.
5. All food contact surfaces must be properly cleaned and sanitized after each use, and all equipment must be kept in good repair.
6. A written food safety plan must be in place that complies with the California Retail Food Code (CalCode), and that describes the processes used to ensure safe food handling, preparation, storage, and service.
7. Food must not be held for more than 4 hours without being cooled to 41°F or below, or heated to 135°F or above.
8. All food employees must practice good personal hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
9. Physical facilities must be designed, constructed, maintained, and operated in a manner that prevents contamination of food items.
What are the Steps to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Orange County in California?
1. Determine which food safety license or certification is required in Orange County, California. Different licenses may be required depending on the type of foodservice operation, such as catering, retail, food processing, or food establishment.
2. Contact the Orange County Department of Health Services to obtain application materials and instructions.
3. Make an appointment to take a food safety test administered by the Orange County Department of Health Services.
4. Submit the completed application, along with any additional required documents, to the Orange County Department of Health Services for processing and review.
5. Pay the applicable fee when submitting the application.
6. Attend an in-person or online training course on food safety practices if required by the Orange County Department of Health Services.
7. Receive notification of your food safety license or certification following a successful review by the Orange County Department of Health Services.
How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Orange County in California?
The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Orange County, California, varies depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. Generally, the cost to obtain a Food Handler Certificate from the Orange County Environmental Health Department is $20. Additionally, other types of food safety certifications may have associated fees ranging from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000.
Who Regulates Food Safety in Orange County in California?
The California Department of Public Health and its local county divisions, including the Orange County Health Care Agency, are responsible for regulating food safety in Orange County, California.
Do You Need a Food Handlers License in Orange County in California?
Yes, in accordance with the California Retail Food Code, any person who is involved in the “storage, preparation, display, service, or sale of food to the consumer” must obtain a California Food Handler Card issued by an accredited organization.
How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Orange County in California?
A Food Handlers Card in Orange County, California, is valid for three years from the date of issue.
Do You Need Every Kitchen Staff at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Orange County in California?
Yes, every kitchen staff at a restaurant in Orange County in California needs to obtain a food handlers license. The law requires that anyone who handles food items obtain a food handlers license, including cooks, dishwashers, servers, bartenders, and bussers.
Do You Need Waiters and Waitresses at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Orange County in California?
Yes, waiters and waitresses at restaurants in Orange County, California need to obtain a food handlers license in order to work. All food handlers must obtain a valid food handlers card from an authorized provider within 30 days of beginning work. For more information, please visit the website of the Orange County Environmental Health Division.
Do You Need a Food Manager Certification in Orange County in California?
Yes, California requires anyone who is responsible for the supervision and/or management of food preparation or service to have a valid food manager certification. In Orange County, the certification must be obtained from an accredited provider such as the National Restaurant Association Solutions, Prometric or Professional Food Managers, Inc.
Is Servsafe Required in Orange County in California?
Yes, all food service workers in Orange County, California must have a valid ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Orange County in California?
In Orange County, California, you will need a variety of permits and licenses to operate a food truck. You must obtain a health permit and food service permit from the Orange County Environmental Health Division, as well as a business license from the Orange County Clerk-Recorder. You must also obtain a mobile food vending permit from the local city or county government, which may have additional requirements. Additionally, you may need to register your vehicle with the California Department of Motor Vehicles and obtain seller’s permits from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration. Depending on your location and the food items you serve, additional permits or licenses may be required.
What Permits do You Need for a Restaurant in Orange County in California?
In order to open a restaurant in Orange County, California, you will need to obtain permits from multiple agencies. Required permits may include a health permit from the Orange County Health Care Agency; a business license from the Orange County Clerk-Recorder’s Office; a permit from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control; and permits from the Orange County Fire Authority, Orange County Building and Safety Division, and Orange County Environmental Health Division. You may also need local permits from the city where your restaurant is located.
What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Orange County in California?
In order to operate a food booth in Orange County, California, you will need to obtain several permits. These include a health permit from the Orange County Environmental Health division, a business license from the Orange County Clerk-Recorder division, and a special event permit from the Orange County Parks and Recreation division. Depending on the location of the stall, additional local permits or zoning approvals may be required.
What Permits do I Need to Sell Food in Orange County in California?
The specific permits and licenses you will need to sell food in Orange County, California will depend on the type of food you are selling, as well as the local, state and federal regulations governing your business. Generally speaking, you will need to obtain a Food Facility Permit from Orange County Environmental Health, a Seller’s Permit from the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, and a California Business License. Depending on the specific type of food you are selling, additional permits or licenses may be required.
What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Orange County in California?
The penalties for selling food without a permit in Orange County, California can vary depending on the type of food being sold. Generally, the sale of food without a permit is a violation of California Health and Safety Code. This is a misdemeanor. The penalties could include a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in jail. Additionally, the seller could be held liable for any damages that result from the sale of food without a permit, including medical costs and/or other expenses that may result from the sale.
English 
Spanish