Food Safety
New Food Code: How does it affect you?
The Washington State Food Code was revised May 1, 2013. Cut leafy greens are now considered a potentially hazardous food that must be maintained at temperatures of 41°F or below. Click here to find out more information. View additional changes here. Review the revised Washington Administrative Code here. You can also download a PDF copy of WAC 246-215 here.
Foodborne illness remains an important public health concern. The CDC estimates there are 48 million cases of foodborne illness each year in the U.S. These illnesses result in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department promotes safe food practices within the community by:
- Reviewing plans of all new and remodeled food establishments;
- Educating food workers and the public about food safety;
- Conducting routine inspections; and
- Investigating reports of foodborne illness.
The following sections provide you with food safety information and guidelines for operating. If you have questions regarding information on this page, please contact us at (253) 798-6460.
Opening a Food Business
Download applications and information related to opening a new food establishment or remodeling an existing facility.
Existing Food Business
Information for existing food establishments including food code updates, how to pay online, change of ownerships and changes to menu or equipment
Temporary Food Service
The Temporary Food Establishment program has made revisions to the application, educational materials and fee schedule.
Farmers Markets
Fee schedule and application for Farmers Markets have changed
Consumer Food Safety
The latest consumer food safety information
Food Establishment Inspection Reports
Past inspection reports for all food establishments in Pierce County
Food Establishment Permit Renwal
Annual operating permits must be renewed by January 31, of each year. Permits can be either renewed online, in person, or by mail. Have your Account ID and Invoice ID handy—you will need these to pay online.
Food Establishment Regulations
Washington State rules and regulations governing food service operations
Food Managers Course
Current information on certified food managers course, including dates of classes
Food Worker Card Class - Now available online.
Information about how to obtain a Washington State food worker card
Foodborne Illness Reporting
Signs and symptoms of food poisoning and how to report your illness to Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department
Complaint Reporting
Report unsafe food handling practices.
