This program works with operators to ensure food safety within fixed food establishments. These establishments undergo routine inspection to ensure they meet safety standards and employ staff that are properly trained and credentialed. Types of fixed food establishments include: restaurants, warehouses, convenience stores, food manufacturers, and food wholesalers.
- Applications
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All applications must be submitted through our new My Health Department Customer Portal. Paper copies are available below.
Plan Review (PDF, 337 KB): This physical plan review is required for all new food establishment construction and remodels to ensure the facility is compliant with state/local health & safety codes.
Pre-Opening Inspection (PDF): This inspection is required to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy after a new or remodeled construction to ensure the approved plans were followed, or before the ownership of an establishment is transferred to another entity or individual. The facility must pass this inspection before a permit can be issued.
Permit to Operate (PDF, 568 KB): This approval is required to complete the permitting process. Once approved, the owner will receive a physical permit and permission to operate a Food Enterprise. Find information on Fee Waivers for High-Quality Child Care Providers in Austin here (Word document, 70 KB).
HACCP/Variance (PDF, 195 KB): Use this application to request a variance, allowing your establishment to deviate from the approved standards, and/or submit a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan showing how you will mitigate risks to food safety.
Central Preparation Facility Registration: Visit My Health Department Customer Portal to register a permitted facility as a Central Preparation Facility (CPF). This registration is only necessary if the establishment provides kitchen space for Mobile Food Vendors.
- Permit Fee Schedule
- Guides
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How to Start a Food Business: View this guide if you are a prospective food enterprise operator.
Food Establishment Inspection Report: View the form used to inspect a food establishment.
Sample Floor Plan: View a physical kitchen floor plan example.
Food Manager/Food Handler Requirements: Learn about the training and certification requirements for food enterprise personnel.
Waste: Learn about waste and how to do your part to reduce it.
Food Donation Facts: Learn about donating food for human consumption.
Food Donation Guide: View the guidelines pertaining to food donation.
- Frequently Asked Questions
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General FAQ: View frequently asked questions concerning fixed food establishments.
Cottage Food Production: View information concerning cottage food industry.
- Laws and Policies
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Federal Drug Administration: 2017 Food Code
State Regulations: Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER)
State Regulations: Texas Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Title 6, Chapter 431)
State Regulations: Food Manufacturing and Food Warehouse Regulations
Austin City Code: Food Code (Chapter 10-3)
Austin City Code: Minors Access to Tobacco (Chapter 10-4)
Austin City Code: Smoking in Public Places (Chapter 10-6)
Austin City Code: Dogs Permitted in Outdoor Dining Areas (Ordinance No. 20151008-011)
County Regulations: Travis County Code, Chapter 247 -- Food Establishment Permits'
- Have Feedback?
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Help us better serve our customers by providing feedback through our online survey.
To address a concern or request a second opinion regarding an inspection result or complaint, contact us at 512-978-0300 from 7:45 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday - Friday.