Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q:  How do I get a Food Permit?

 

A:  To obtain an initial food establishment permit, there are several steps:

1.  Contact a food inspector at the Morgan County Health Department.

          765-342-6621

2.  Discuss with the inspector whether drawn plans are required for your specific establishment (always for new or remodeled buildings, sometimes for established kitchens in previously permitted food establishments).

See: Criteria for Newly Constructed or Renovated Establishments.

3.  Make an appointment with the inspector to come to the food establishment to do a pre-opening inspection (generally we require 3-4 days notice for this type of appointment).  ALL equipment must be in place and functioning properly at the time of the pre-opening inspection.  This includes all handwash requirements, plumbing, sinks, refrigeration and hot and cold holding equipment.  Food is not required to be in the establishment for the pre-opening inspection. 

4.  Come to the Morgan County Health Department with your completed Food Establishment Permit Application and apply for the permit.  Once the permit has been obtained, a food establishment may open.

5.  Please note that, by Indiana law, every non-exempt food establishment must have at least one Certified Foodhandler on staff.

CertifiedFoodhandler FAQ

Certified Food Handler Training

 

Q:  How do I get a food permit to set up at a temporary event?

 

A:  Follow the directions above for a full-time food permit and read the following:

Temporary Event General Requirements

 

Q:  What do I need to set up a Hot Dog Cart?

 

A:  Hot Dog Cart General Requirements

 

Q:  What are the differences between temporary, part-time and full-time food permits?

 

A:  A full-time food establishment permit is for a food establishment that operates year-round. 

A part-time food establishment permit is for a food establishment that is open less than six months of the year.

A temporary food establishment permit is for a food establishment that is open only 14 consecutive days OR 30 or fewer calendar days in a calendar year.  These tend to be mobile units serving food at fairs, festivals, etc…

 List of Fees for Food Establishment Permits

 

 Q:  What does my Employee Illness Policy need to look like and/or include?

 

A:  Please refer to this sample employee illness policy:

Sample Written Food Employee Illness Policy