Food Handlers Requirements in Pierce County in Washington

What are the Requirements for Food Safety in Pierce County in Washington?

The requirements for food safety in Pierce County, Washington are outlined in Pierce County’s Department of Health and Human Services Food Services and Lodging Program. The requirements include:

1. Food establishments must have a valid Pierce County Food License.
2. All food establishments must have a license holder and/or a designated manager who has passed a qualified, recognized food safety certification program such as Serve Safe or Food Handler.

3. Employees must follow all local, state, and federal food safety regulations and requirements. All food handlers must practice good personal hygiene and wear clean clothing and hairnets/beard nets when working with food.

4. Hot and cold foods must be stored at the proper temperatures.

5. All surfaces that come in contact with food must be cleaned daily and sanitized properly throughout the day to prevent contamination.

6. All perishable foods must be labeled with use-by dates, and all food products used for storage, display, or delivery must bear the original labels.

7. Proper hand washing practices must be practiced by all employees before and after handling food, after using the restroom, and after any exposure to body fluids (e.g., blood or vomit).

8. All wastewater from kitchen sinks and other equipment used to prepare foods must be disposed of properly to prevent contamination of other foods or water sources.

9. Food establishments must have written standard operating procedures that outline their safe food handling processes.

10. Food establishments must maintain records of major repairs or renovations of equipment that is used in the production or preparation of foods.

What are the Steps to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Pierce County in Washington?

1. Register for a Pierce County food worker card: Visit www.piercecountywa.org/foodworker and fill out the application form. Include a valid photo ID and payment for the food worker card fee.

2. Take the Food Worker Course: After registering, you must complete the online Food Worker Course and print out your certificate of completion.

3. Obtain a Pierce County Food Safety License: Visit www.piercecountywa.org/foodworker and fill in the application form for the Pierce County Food Safety License. Include a valid photo ID and payment for the license fee.

4. Schedule an Inspection: Call Pierce County Environmental Health at (253) 798-4678 to make an appointment for an inspection of your food business location.

5. Pass the Inspection: The inspector will check your facility to ensure it meets all requirements outlined in the Pierce County Code. If it does, you will receive your food safety license.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Pierce County in Washington?

The cost of obtaining a food safety license or certification in Pierce County, Washington, varies depending on the type of license or certification you are seeking. For example, the Washington State Department of Health requires food handlers to obtain a Food Worker Card, which costs $10. Pursuing a food safety certification through a recognized certification program may cost anywhere from $100 to $600 depending on the program.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Pierce County in Washington?

Food safety in Pierce County, Washington is regulated by the Washington State Department of Health. The department’s Food Safety Program works to promote and protect the public’s health through monitoring and regulation of food service operations, retail food stores, and temporary food events.

Do You Need a Food Handlers License in Pierce County in Washington?

Yes, anyone who works in a food service establishment in Pierce County, Washington must have a valid Food Handlers Permit. The permit must be obtained through the Pierce County Health Department.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Pierce County in Washington?

In Pierce County, Washington, a food handler’s license does not have an expiration date. Once issued, it is valid until the handler changes their name or employment location.

Do You Need Every Kitchen Staff at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Pierce County in Washington?

Yes, if any staff at a restaurant in Pierce County, Washington is responsible for handling, preparing, serving, or storing food, they must obtain a food handlers license from the county health department.

Do You Need Waiters and Waitresses at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Pierce County in Washington?

Yes, in Pierce County, Washington, waiters and waitresses employed at a restaurant must obtain a Washington State Food Workers Card (known as a food handlers license) in order to work in the food service industry.

Do You Need a Food Manager Certification in Pierce County in Washington?

Yes, in Pierce County, Washington, you are required to have a food manager certification. The certification must be obtained from an approved program such as the ServSafe program offered by the National Restaurant Association.

Is Servsafe Required in Pierce County in Washington?

Yes, Servsafe is required in Pierce County, Washington. The Washington State Department of Health requires food service establishments to have at least one certified food worker on staff in any county with a population over 250,000, which includes Pierce County.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Pierce County in Washington?

In Pierce County, Washington, you will need to secure a mobile food unit permit from the Pierce County Health Department. To get a permit, you must submit an application and pass an inspection, which includes ensuring that your truck is clean and meets safety standards. You will also need to obtain a business license from the Pierce County Finance Department. Additionally, you will need to secure a commissary agreement, where your truck is authorized to use a certified kitchen for food prep and storage. Finally, you may be required to obtain additional city permits depending on where you plan to operate your food truck in Pierce County.

What Permits do You Need for a Restaurant in Pierce County in Washington?

In Pierce County, Washington, any person or entity wishing to open a restaurant must obtain the following permits and licenses:

1. Business License: All business owners in Pierce County are required to obtain a business license from the Pierce County Finance Department.

2. Food Service Permit: Any commercial food facility in Pierce County must obtain a food service permit from the Pierce County Environmental Health Department.

3. Liquor License: Restaurants wishing to serve alcohol must obtain a liquor license from the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB).

4. Building Permit: All restaurants must obtain a building permit from the Pierce County Department of Community Development prior to beginning construction or renovation of the restaurant.

5. Sign Permit: A sign permit is required before any signage can be installed at the restaurant. This permit can be obtained from the Pierce County Planning and Land Services Department.

6. Health Department Inspection: The Pierce County Health Department will inspect the restaurant prior to opening to ensure that all health and safety requirements are met.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Pierce County in Washington?

In order to operate a food booth in Pierce County, Washington, you will need to obtain a Temporary Food Service Permit from Pierce County Public Health. Additional permits may be required depending on the type of food you are serving and your particular location. In addition to a permit, you will also need to meet any applicable local zoning requirements and obtain any necessary permits from the city or county in which your food booth is located.

What Permits do I Need to Sell Food in Pierce County in Washington?

The requirements to sell food in Pierce County, Washington depend on the type of food you are selling. Generally, you will need to obtain a valid health permit from the Pierce County Health Department and a business license from the Pierce County Business Licensing office. You may also need to obtain additional permits or licenses from other local, state, and federal agencies depending on the products you are selling.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Pierce County in Washington?

Selling food without a valid permit in Pierce County, Washington, is a misdemeanor and can result in penalties of up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. Additionally, the violation may result in the suspension or revocation of the business’ permit.