Food Handlers Requirements in Wake County in North Carolina

What are the Requirements for Food Safety in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, all food establishments must comply with the food safety laws and regulations set forth by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS). This includes:

-Operator training in food safety, including proper temperatures for storage and preparation of food.
-Maintaining cleanliness of all surfaces that come into contact with food.
-Using proper handwashing techniques.
-Storing foods safely and at the correct temperatures.
-Ensuring that food is cooked to the proper internal temperature.
-Monitoring for contamination and potential food borne illnesses.
-Proper labeling of food items.
-Adequate ventilation in the kitchen.
-Using proper cleaning and sanitizing methods.
-Proper disposal of solid waste.
-Pest control measures.

What are the Steps to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Wake County in North Carolina?

1. Visit Wake County Public Health Department’s website (https://www.wakegov.com/publichealth/environmental/foodsafety/Pages/default.aspx) to review the county’s food safety requirements.

2. Obtain a food handler certification by taking an approved online training course through the Wake County Food Safety Program.

3. Print out the Food Service Manager Certification Form and complete it with your details including name, address, and contact information.

4. Submit the form along with the $20 fee by mail or in person to: Wake County Public Health Department Environmental Health Division 10 Sunnybrook Road Raleigh, NC 27610

5. Once your form is received, you will be mailed a copy of your Food Service Manager Certification. This certifies you as having met the Wake County standards for food safety and allows you to operate a food service establishment in Wake County.

How Much does it Cost to Obtain a Food Safety License or Certification in Wake County in North Carolina?

It depends on the type of food safety license or certification that is needed. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services requires all food service establishments to have a valid permit issued by the local health department. In Wake County, the cost of the permit ranges from $50 to $250 for permanent establishments, depending on the type of food service and number of seats. A temporary permit costs $25. All permits must be renewed annually.

Who Regulates Food Safety in Wake County in North Carolina?

Food safety in Wake County, North Carolina is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public Health, and Wake County Environmental Health.

Do You Need a Food Handlers License in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, in Wake County, North Carolina, you must have a Food Handlers License in order to work in any food service industry. The license must be obtained from the Wake County Environmental Health Department.

How Long Does a Food Handlers License Last in Wake County in North Carolina?

Food handlers licenses do not expire in Wake County, North Carolina. Once the food handler has completed the approved course and received their license, it is valid for as long as they work in the food service industry.

Do You Need Every Kitchen Staff at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes. In Wake County, North Carolina, it is required that all food service workers obtain a Food Handlers Certificate. This includes all kitchen staff at a restaurant.

Do You Need Waiters and Waitresses at a Restaurant to Obtain a Food Handlers License in Wake County in North Carolina?



Yes. All restaurant food handlers in Wake County, North Carolina, must obtain a food handler’s license in order to work as a waiter or waitress. The license must be obtained from the Wake County Environmental Health Department, and a food handler training course must be completed.

Do You Need a Food Manager Certification in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, Wake County currently requires that anyone selling food must have a food manager certification from an accredited program.

Is Servsafe Required in Wake County in North Carolina?

Yes, Servsafe is required in Wake County, North Carolina. All food service and retail food establishments must obtain a Wake County Food Protection Manager’s Certification, which requires that all managers pass the ServSafe exam.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Truck in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, food truck operators are required to obtain a Mobile Food Unit (MFU) permit from the Wake County Public Health Department (WCPHD). The permit must be renewed on an annual basis. In addition, you must obtain a business license from the county clerk’s office. Additionally, if you plan to prepare food on board your food truck, you will need to obtain a Health Department Certified Commissary endorsement from the WCPHD. Lastly, if your truck is powered by gasoline or diesel fuel, you will need to obtain a permit from Wake County Environmental Services.

What Permits do You Need for a Restaurant in Wake County in North Carolina?

In Wake County, North Carolina, restaurants are regulated by the Wake County Environmental Health Department. To operate a restaurant in Wake County, you will need to obtain the following permits and licenses:

1. North Carolina Food Service Permit – All food service establishments in Wake County must obtain a North Carolina Food Service Permit from the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (NCDA&CS). This permit is valid for two years and must be renewed every two years.

2. Wake County Environmental Health Permit – You must also obtain a Wake County Environmental Health Permit from the Wake County Environmental Health Department. This permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

3. Alcoholic Beverage Control Permit – If you plan to sell alcoholic beverages, you must obtain an Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) permit from the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABC Commission). This permit is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.

4. Building/Fire Code Permits – Before you can open your restaurant, you will need to secure a Certificate of Occupancy from the local building inspector and fire marshal office. This certificate certifies that the restaurant meets all applicable state and local building and fire codes and regulations. In addition, you may need additional permits related to ventilation systems, sprinkler systems, grease traps, etc.

5. Signage/Advertising Permits – Depending on where your restaurant is located, you may also need to obtain signage/advertising permits from your local municipality or county government.

What Permits do You Need for a Food Booth in Wake County in North Carolina?

In order to operate a food booth in Wake County, North Carolina, you must apply for a Temporary Food Establishment Permit from Wake County Environmental Services. The application must be completed and submitted at least 10 days prior to the event. Additionally, you must also obtain a fire safety permit from the Wake County Fire Marshal’s office. Finally, if the event is held on public property, you will need to secure an event permit from the relevant local municipality or agency.

What Permits do I Need to Sell Food in Wake County in North Carolina?

According to the Wake County Public Health Department, there are several permits and licenses you will need to sell food in Wake County in North Carolina. These include a Retail Food Establishment Permit, a Temporary Food Establishment Permit, and a Mobile Food Establishment Permit. You may also need to apply for a special event permit if you are selling food at an event such as a festival or farmers market. Additionally, you must be approved by the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services for any products that require special handling or processing, such as canned foods, and you must meet the requirements of the North Carolina Food Code.

What are the Penalties for Selling Food without a Permit in Wake County in North Carolina?

The penalties for selling food without a permit in Wake County, North Carolina, depend on the particular type of food being sold. Generally, if the food is considered to be a “high-risk” (potentially hazardous) food, the penalty may be a criminal misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. If the food is not considered high-risk, then the penalty could be either a civil fine of up to $50 or an administrative penalty issued by the county health department.