Temporary Food Establishment
New category and late fee structure as of July 8, 2010.
Temporary Event Fee Schedule The fee schedule has been modified, effective 7/8/2010. Please see new Limited Category.
A Temporary Food Establishment is a food establishment that operates at a fixed location for a period of time not more than 21 consecutive days in conjunction with a single event or celebration, such as a:
- Fair;
- Sporting events;
- Carnival;
- Circus;
- Public exhibition;
- Festival;
- Fund raiser; or
- Similar transitory gathering.
Who Needs to Get a Temporary Food Establishment Permit?
Individuals or groups planning to hold events that are open to the public must obtain a permit. If you advertise your event with flyers, banners, newspaper articles, or by other means, it is considered a public event.
All temporary food establishments must meet other agency requirements, i.e. local fire department, etc.
Note: Church dinners or other events that are for members and their guests only and are not advertised, are not considered to be public events.
Where to Obtain the Permit Application?
An application may be obtained from Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department or by calling (253) 798-6460, Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm or you may download the application from this page.
Temporary Food Establishment Application
Temporary Food Establishment Checklist
Temporary Hand Washing Station
Temporary Event Exempt Food List
Temporary Event Tasting or Handing Out Samples Requirements
Sanitation Requirements for Events Lasting Longer than 1 Day
Juice Product(s) Policy for Temporary Events
Temporary Event Rules
Food Worker Card Class Information
Produce Washing Requirements
When should the permit application be returned?
Applications must be returned 14 days before the event. This allows time for Health Department staff to adequately review the application and make any changes necessary well in advance of the event.
If the application is returned to Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department less than 14 days before the event, a late fee will be assessed in addition to the regular permit fee. You are urged to apply for a permit as early as possible.
Last Updated: Jul 28, 2010 3:20 PM