The Florida Department of Health regulates food service operations of the following types of establishments, ensuring they are operating in a safe and sanitary manner:
- Schools (public and private)
- Residential facilities
- After-school meal programs
- Correctional facilities
- Civic and fraternal organizations
- Theaters (that limit their menu to drinks, candy, popcorn, hotdogs, and nachos)
- Bars and lounges (that do not serve food)
The Florida Department of Health does not have regulatory authority over the food areas of hospitals, nursing homes, childcare facilities, group homes, churches, and other non-profit organizations.
If you think you have become ill from eating in a food service facility, report it to our office immediately by calling 352-540-6812, Option #3.
Forms
- Florida Department of Health Food Service Facility Application
- Florida Department of Health Food Service Facility Plan Review Application
- Florida Department of Health Temporary Food Service Event Application
- Time as a Public Health Control Guidance
Furthermore, the following paperwork needs to be part of your plan review:
- A floor plan with all sinks and toilets marked
- A water bill (if facility is serviced by public sewer) or an Existing System Evaluation (if the facility is served by a Septic System)
Please bring the entire plan review to the Environmental Health Division.
Resources
- Food Safety (Preparation and Storage)
- Agency for Health Care Administration
- American Health Care Association
- Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
- Department of Children and Families
- Florida Statutes
- Florida Administrative Codes
- Chapter 64E-11, Florida Administrative Code
- Preventing Food Contamination
- Food and Drug Administration – Food Safety
- FDA Food Code
- US Department of Agriculture – Food Safety
- Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)