Whether you are opening a new restaurant, serving food at a special event or a long-term restaurant owner there are a few things we look for. Contact us before you get started or make changes to the layout of your food establishment. We are available for all questions.

If you are looking to prepare and serve food in new construction or refurbished facility in Tioga County you must start with submitting a FOOD FACILITY PLAN REVIEW. This is the first step in having your facility approved for food service. Submit the completed form with the plan review fee to us and we will contact you for the next step.

In order to meet requirements, you must complete the PERMIT TO OPERATE application and keep it on file at your establishment. This must be completed and returned to us with your payment at least 30 days prior to your expected opening date. 

Our Food Course is helpful for everyone working in food service. We recommend having all new staff members review the course as part of their orientation. Complete the FOOD COURSE APPLICATION FORM to obtain a RED CARD showing that you have completed the course and quiz.

It is REQUIRED that one person onsite holds a valid RED CARD issued from us when food is being prepared and served.

Food Safety Course APPLICATION can be found here.

Food Safety Course QUIZ can be found here.  

For special events and celebrations that last no more than 14 consecutive days, a TEMPORARY FOOD PERMIT APPLICATION must be completed at least two weeks before the event.

* CLICK HERE for our new Temporary Food Permit Application or visit https://www.cognitoforms.com/TiogaCountyPublicHealth/TemporaryFoodPermitApplication

What is a food service establishment? 

Food service establishments are places where food is given to people, whether sold or free, and whether eaten on-site or taken away. 

What are temporary food service establishments? 

A temporary food establishment serves food to the public at a fixed location for no more than fourteen (14) consecutive days duration. 

Do I need a food permit? 

• All food service establishments, including temporary food service establishments, must be permitted. 

• You need a permit if you are preparing, handling, or serving food for the public. Any advertisement of the food service to the public would mean a permit is required. 

• For example: restaurant, food truck, BBQ open to the public, potluck fundraiser open to the public, charitable event, catering, food stand at a local fair. 

Are there any events that DO NOT require temporary food permits? 

• An event is not considered a temporary food service, and does not require a permit, if the food is prepared or provided by members of a group for members of the group and their invited guests, such as: 

• A meeting or an event for a private or charitable organization, association, a fraternal group, or club where food is brought in by members 

• An activity in a church or other religious congregation for members where food is brought in by members 

• A gathering such as a party, picnic or potluck where food is shared. 

• Private weddings that do their own food preparation and no payment to outside individuals. Again, this only applies to the gathering if it is private. Any public advertisement of an event will mean a permit is required. 

Do bake sales need a permit? 

A bake sale is not considered a temporary event as long as only dry baked goods, such as cookies, brownies, and cake, are offered. If you are offering baked goods with cream toppings, fillings, or pumpkin pie, a temporary permit is required.