PART 8: COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT
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Subpart A - Applicability
08100 Use for intended purpose--Public health protection (FDA Food Code 8-101.10).
(1) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall apply this chapter to promote its underlying purpose,
as specified under 01105, of safeguarding public health and ensuring that FOOD is safe,
not ADULTERATED, and honestly presented when offered to the CONSUMER.
(2) In enforcing the provision of this chapter, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall assess
existing facilities or EQUIPMENT that were in use before the effective date of this chapter
based on the following considerations:
- Whether the facilities or EQUIPMENT are in good repair and capable of being
- Whether FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES comply with Part 4, Subpart A;
- Whether the capacities of cooling, heating, and holding EQUIPMENT are sufficient
- The existence of a documented agreement with the PERMIT HOLDER that the
maintained in a sanitary condition;
to comply with 04300; and
facilities or EQUIPMENT will be replaced as specified under 08350(7).
08105 Additional requirements--Preventing health hazards, provision for conditions not
addressed (FDA Food Code 8-102.10).
(1) If necessary to protect against public health hazards or nuisances, the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY may impose specific requirements in addition to the requirements contained
in this chapter that are authorized by LAW.
(2) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall document the conditions that necessitate the
imposition of additional requirements and the underlying public health rationale. The
documentation must be provided to the PERMIT applicant or PERMIT HOLDER and a copy
must be maintained in the REGULATORY AUTHORITY'S file for the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.
08110 Variances--Modifications and waivers (FDA Food Code 8-103.10).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may grant a VARIANCE by modifying or waiving the requirements
of this chapter if in the opinion of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY a health HAZARD or nuisance will
not result from the VARIANCE. If a VARIANCE is granted, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall retain
the information specified under 08115 in its records for the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.
08115 Variances--Documentation of proposed VARIANCE and justification (FDA Food Code
8-103.11).
Before a VARIANCE from a requirement of this chapter is APPROVED, the information that must
be provided by the PERSON requesting the VARIANCE and retained in the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY'S file on the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT includes:
(1) A statement of the proposed VARIANCE of this chapter requirement citing the relevant
section;
(2) An analysis of the rationale for how the potential public health hazards and nuisances
addressed by the relevant section will be alternatively addressed by the proposal; and
(3) A HACCP PLAN if required as specified under 08210(1) that includes the information
specified under 08215 as it is relevant to the VARIANCE requested.
08120 Variances--Conformance with approved procedures (FDA Food Code 8-103.12).
If the REGULATORY AUTHORITY grants a VARIANCE as specified under 08110, or a HACCP PLAN is
otherwise required as specified under 08210, the PERMIT HOLDER shall:
(1) Maintain the APPROVED VARIANCE at the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT; and
(2) Comply with the HACCP PLANS and procedures that are submitted as specified under
08215 and APPROVED as a basis for the modification or waiver; and
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(3) Maintain and provide to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY, upon request, records specified
under 08215 (4) and (5) that demonstrate that the following are routinely employed:
- Procedures for monitoring CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS;
- Monitoring of the CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS;
- Verification of the effectiveness of the operation or process; and
- Necessary corrective actions if there is a failure at a CRITICAL CONTROL POINT.
Subpart B - Plan Submission and Approval
08200 Facility and operating plans--When plans are required (FDA Food Code 8-201.11).
A PERMIT applicant or PERMIT HOLDER shall submit to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY properly
prepared plans and specifications for review and approval before:
(1) The construction of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT;
(2) The conversion of an existing structure for use as a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT; or
(3) The remodeling of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, a change of type of FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, or
significant changes to the methods of FOOD preparation or style of service as specified
under 08325(3) if the REGULATORY AUTHORITY determines that plans and specifications
are necessary to ensure compliance with this chapter.
08205 Facility and operating plans--Contents of the plans and specifications (FDA Food Code
8-201.12).
The plans and specifications for a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, including a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT
specified under 08210, must include, as required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY based on the
type of operation, type of FOOD preparation, and FOODS prepared, the following information to
demonstrate conformance with chapter provisions:
(1) Intended menu;
(2) Anticipated volume of FOOD to be stored, prepared, and sold or served;
(3) Proposed layout, mechanical schematics, construction materials, and finish schedules;
(4) Proposed EQUIPMENT types, manufacturers, model numbers, locations, dimensions,
performance capacities, and installation specifications;
(5) Evidence that standard procedures that ensure compliance with the requirements of
this chapter are developed or are being developed; and
(6) Other information that may be required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY for the proper
review of the proposed construction, conversion or modification, and procedures for
operating a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT.
08210 Facility and operating plans--When a HACCP plan is required (FDA Food Code
8-201.13).
(1) Before engaging in an activity that requires a HACCP PLAN, a PERMIT applicant or PERMIT
HOLDER shall submit to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY for approval a properly prepared
HACCP PLAN as specified under 08215 and the relevant provisions of this chapter if:
- Submission of a HACCP PLAN is required according to LAW;
- A VARIANCE is required as specified under 03400 (4)(d), 03535, and 04244(2);
- The REGULATORY AUTHORITY determines that a FOOD preparation or processing
method requires a VARIANCE based on a plan submittal specified under 08205, an
inspectional finding, or a VARIANCE request.
(2) A PERMIT applicant or PERMIT HOLDER shall have a properly prepared HACCP PLAN as
specified under 03540.
Part 8: Compliance and Enforcement Page 105
08215 Facility and operating plans--Contents of a HACCP plan (FDA Food Code 8-201.14).
For a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT required under 08210 to have a HACCP PLAN, the PERMIT applicant
or PERMIT HOLDER shall submit to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY a properly prepared HACCP PLAN
that includes:
(1) General information such as the name of the PERMIT applicant or PERMIT HOLDER, the
FOOD ESTABLISHMENT address, and contact information;
(2) A categorization of the types of TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS that are
to be controlled under the HACCP PLAN;
(3) A flow diagram or chart for each specific FOOD or category type that identifies:
- Each step in the process;
- The hazards and controls for each step in the flow diagram or chart;
- The steps that are CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS;
- The ingredients, materials, and EQUIPMENT used in the preparation of that FOOD;
- Formulations or recipes that delineate methods and procedural control measures
and
that address the FOOD safety concerns involved.
(4) A CRITICAL CONTROL POINT summary for each specific FOOD or category type that clearly
identifies:
- Each CRITICAL CONTROL POINT;
- The CRITICAL LIMITS for each CRITICAL CONTROL POINT;
- The method and frequency for monitoring and controlling each CRITICAL CONTROL
- The method and frequency for the PERSON IN CHARGE to routinely verify that the
- Action to be taken by the designated FOOD EMPLOYEE or PERSON IN CHARGE if the
- Records to be maintained by the PERSON IN CHARGE to demonstrate that the
POINT by the designated FOOD EMPLOYEE or the PERSON IN CHARGE;
FOOD EMPLOYEE is following standard operating procedures and monitoring
CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS;
CRITICAL LIMITS for each CRITICAL CONTROL POINT are not met; and
HACCP PLAN is properly operated and managed; and
(5) Supporting documents such as:
- FOOD EMPLOYEE and supervisory training plan that addresses the food safety
- Copies of blank records forms that are necessary to implement the HACCP PLAN;
- Additional scientific data or other information, as required by the REGULATORY
issues of concern;
and
AUTHORITY, supporting the determination that FOOD safety is not compromised by
the proposal.
(6) Any other information required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08220 Trade secrets (FDA Food Code 8-202.10).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall treat as confidential in accordance with LAW, information that
meets the requirements specified in LAW for a trade secret and is contained on inspection
report forms and in the plans and specifications submitted as specified under 08205 and
08215.
08225 Construction inspection and approval--Preoperational inspections (FDA Food Code
8-203.10).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall conduct one or more preoperational inspections to verify
that the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is constructed and equipped in accordance with the APPROVED
plans and APPROVED modifications of those plans, has established standard operating
procedures as specified under 08205(5), and is in compliance with the LAW and this chapter.
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Subpart C - Permit to Operate
08300 Requirement--Prerequisite for operation (FDA Food Code 8-301.11).
A PERSON may not operate a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT without a valid PERMIT to operate issued by
the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08305 Exempt from permit with approval.
(1) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may exempt a PERSON from the provisions of 08600(1) and
08300 of this chapter in order to operate without a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT, if the
PERSON meets the other provisions of this chapter, including not using any FOOD
prepared in a residential kitchen or other facility that is not APPROVED, and the types of
FOOD served are limited to those specified in subsection (4) of this section.
(2) The PERSON requesting a PERMIT exemption under subsection (1) of this section shall
submit a written application for an exemption on a form provided by the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY at least 14 calendar days before providing FOOD service, or as otherwise
required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
(3) The PERSON requesting a PERMIT exemption under subsection (1) of this section shall
submit properly prepared plans and specifications of the FOOD service facilities and
EQUIPMENT if the REGULATORY AUTHORITY requires it, based on a review of the
application for an exemption submitted under subsection (2) of this section.
(4) The PERSON requesting a PERMIT exemption under subsection (1) of this section shall
limit FOOD handling to one or more of the following FOODS:
- Individual samples of nonTIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD sliced
- Popcorn and flavored popcorn prepared from commercially PACKAGED ingredients
- Dried herbs and spices processed in an APPROVED facility;
- Crushed ice drinks containing only ingredients that are not TIME/TEMPERATURE
- Corn on the cob;
- Whole roasted peppers;
- Roasted nuts, roasted peanuts, and roasted candy-coated nuts;
- Chocolate-dipped ice cream bars prepared from pre-PACKAGED ice cream bars
- Chocolate-dipped bananas prepared from bananas peeled and frozen in an
- Cotton candy.
fruits and vegetables;
that are not TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD;
CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOODS and dispensed from a self-contained machine that
makes its own ice. Drinks with TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD,
snow cones, and shaved ice are not included;
produced in a FOOD PROCESSING PLANT;
APPROVED facility; and
08310 Application procedure--Submission thirty calendar days before proposed opening
(FDA Food Code 8-302.11).
An applicant shall submit an application for a PERMIT at least thirty calendar days before the
date planned for opening a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT or the expiration of the current PERMIT for an
existing facility.
08315 Application procedure--Form of submission (FDA Food Code 8-302.12).
A PERSON desiring to operate a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT shall submit to the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY a written application for a PERMIT on a form provided by the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY.
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08320 Application procedure--Qualifications and responsibilities of applicants (FDA Food
Code 8-302.13).
To qualify for a PERMIT, an applicant shall:
(1) Be an owner of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT or an officer of the legal ownership;
(2) Comply with the requirements of this chapter;
(3) As specified under 08415, agree to allow access to the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT and to
provide required information; and
(4) Pay the applicable PERMIT fees at the time the application is submitted.
08325 Application procedure--Contents of the application (FDA Food Code 8-302.14).
The application must include:
(1) The name, birth date or Unified Business Identifier, mailing address, telephone
number, and signature of the PERSON applying for the PERMIT and the name, mailing
address, and location of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT;
(2) Information specifying whether the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is owned by an association,
corporation, individual, partnership, or other legal entity;
(3) A statement specifying whether the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT:
- Is mobile or stationary and temporary or permanent; and
- Is an operation that includes one or more of the following:
- Prepares, offers for sale, or serves TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY
- Prepares only FOOD that is not TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY
FOOD:
(A) Only to order upon a CONSUMER'S request;
(B) In advance quantities based on projected CONSUMER demand and
discards FOOD that is not sold or served at an APPROVED frequency; or
(C) Using time as a public health control under 03530;
(ii) Prepares TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD in advance using a
FOOD preparation method that involves two or more steps which may
include combining TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD
ingredients; cooking; cooling; reheating; hot or cold holding; freezing; or
thawing;
(iii) Prepares FOOD as specified under (b)(ii) of this subsection for delivery to
and consumption at a location off the PREMISES of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT
where it is prepared;
(iv) Prepares FOOD as specified under (b)(ii) of this subsection for service to a
HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE POPULATION;
FOOD; or
(vi) Does not prepare, but offers for sale only pre-PACKAGED FOOD that is not
TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR SAFETY FOOD.
(4) The name, title, address, and telephone number of the PERSON directly responsible for
the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT;
(5) The name, title, address, and telephone number of the PERSON who functions as the
immediate supervisor of the PERSON specified under subsection (4) of this section such
as the zone, district, or regional supervisor;
(6) The names, titles, and addresses of:
- The PERSONS comprising the legal ownership as specified under subsection (2) of
- The local resident agent if one is required based on the type of legal ownership.
this section including the owners and officers; and
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(7) A statement signed by the applicant that:
- Attests to the accuracy of the information provided in the application; and
- Affirms that the applicant will:
- Comply with this chapter; and
(ii) Allow the REGULATORY AUTHORITY access to the establishment as specified
under 08415 and to the records specified under 03290, 05280 and 08215
(4)(f); and
(8) Other information required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08330 Issuance--New, converted, or remodeled establishments (FDA Food Code 8-303.10).
For FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS that are required to submit plans as specified under 08200 the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall issue a PERMIT to the applicant after:
(1) A properly completed application is submitted;
(2) The required fee is submitted;
(3) The required plans, specifications, and information are reviewed and APPROVED; and
(4) A preoperational inspection as specified under 08225 shows that the establishment is
built or remodeled in accordance with the APPROVED plans and specifications and that
the establishment is in compliance with this chapter.
08335 Issuance--Existing establishments, permit renewal, and change of ownership (FDA
Food Code 8-303.20).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may renew a PERMIT for an existing FOOD ESTABLISHMENT or may
issue a PERMIT to a new owner of an existing establishment after a properly completed
application is submitted, reviewed and APPROVED, the fees are paid, and an inspection shows
that the establishment is in compliance with this chapter.
08340 Issuance--Denial of application for permit, notice (FDA Food Code 8-303.30).
If an application for a PERMIT to operate is denied, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall provide the
applicant with a notice that includes:
(1) The specific reasons and chapter citations for the PERMIT denial;
(2) The actions, if any, that the applicant must take to qualify for a PERMIT; and
(3) Advisement of the applicant's right of appeal and the process and time frames for
appeal that are provided in LAW.
08345 Conditions of retention--Responsibilities of the regulatory authority (FDA Food Code
8-304.10).
(1) At the time a PERMIT is first issued, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall provide to the
PERMIT HOLDER a copy of this chapter so that the PERMIT HOLDER is notified of the
compliance requirements and the conditions of retention, as specified under 08350,
that are applicable to the PERMIT.
(2) Failure to provide the information specified in subsection (1) of this section does not
prevent the REGULATORY AUTHORITY from taking authorized action or seeking remedies
if the PERMIT HOLDER fails to comply with this chapter or an order, warning, or directive
of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08350 Conditions of retention--Responsibilities of the permit holder (FDA Food Code
8-304.11).
Upon acceptance of the PERMIT issued by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY, the PERMIT HOLDER in
order to retain the PERMIT shall:
(1) Post the PERMIT in a location in the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT that is conspicuous to
CONSUMERS;
Part 8: Compliance and Enforcement Page 109
(2) Comply with the provisions of this chapter including the conditions of a granted
VARIANCE as specified under 08120, and APPROVED plans as specified under 08205;
(3) If a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is required under 08210 to operate under a HACCP PLAN,
comply with the plan as specified under 08120;
(4) Immediately contact the REGULATORY AUTHORITY to report an illness of a FOOD
EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE as specified under 02215;
(5) Immediately discontinue operations and notify the REGULATORY AUTHORITY if an
IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD might exist as specified under 08455;
(6) Allow representatives of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY access to the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT
as specified under 08415;
(7) Replace existing facilities and EQUIPMENT specified under 08100 with facilities and
EQUIPMENT that comply with this chapter if:
- The REGULATORY AUTHORITY directs the replacement because the facilities and
- The facilities and EQUIPMENT are replaced in the normal course of operation.
EQUIPMENT constitute a public health HAZARD or nuisance or no longer comply with
the requirements upon which the facilities and EQUIPMENT were accepted; or
(8) Comply with directives of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY including time frames for
corrective actions specified in inspection reports, notices, orders, warnings, and other
directives issued by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY in regard to the PERMIT HOLDER'S FOOD
ESTABLISHMENT or in response to community emergencies;
(9) Accept notices issued and served by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY according to LAW;
(10) Be subject to the administrative, civil, injunctive, and criminal remedies authorized in
LAW for failure to comply with this chapter or a directive of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY,
including time frames for corrective actions specified in inspection reports, notices,
orders, warnings, and other directives; and
(11) Notify customers that the most recent establishment inspection report or summary
provided by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY is available for review by posting a sign or
placard, or a modified operating permit provided by a REGULATORY AUTHORITY, in a
location in the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT that is conspicuous to customers or by another
method acceptable to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08355 Conditions of retention--Permits not transferable (FDA Food Code 8-304.20).
A PERMIT may not be transferred from one PERSON to another PERSON, from one FOOD
ESTABLISHMENT to another, or from one type of operation to another if the FOOD operation
changes from the type of operation specified in the application as specified under 08325(3)
and the change in operation is not APPROVED.
Subpart D - Inspection and Correction of Violations
08400 Frequency--Establishing inspection interval (FDA Food Code 8-401.10).
(1) Except as specified in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY shall inspect a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT at least once every six months.
(2) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may increase the interval between inspections beyond six
months if:
- The FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is fully operating under an APPROVED and validated
- The FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is assigned a less frequent inspection frequency based
- The establishment's operation involves only coffee service and other FOOD that is
HACCP PLAN as specified under 08215 and 08120 (1) and (2);
on a written RISK-based inspection schedule developed by the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY, or set by state or federal LAW, and uniformly applied throughout the
jurisdiction; or
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not PACKAGED or pre-PACKAGED FOOD that is not TIME/TEMPERATURE CONTROL FOR
SAFETY FOOD such as carbonated BEVERAGES and snack FOOD such as chips,
nuts, popcorn and pretzels.
(3) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall inspect a TEMPORARY FOOD ESTABLISHMENT during its
PERMIT period, unless the REGULATORY AUTHORITY develops a written RISK-based plan
for exempting certain categories of TEMPORARY FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS from inspection
that is uniformly applied throughout the jurisdiction.
08405 Frequency--Performance- and risk-based (FDA Food Code 8-401.20).
Within the parameters specified under 08400, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall prioritize, and
conduct more frequent inspections based upon its assessment of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT'S
history of compliance with this chapter and the establishment's potential as a vector of
foodborne illness by evaluating:
(1) Past performance, for nonconformance with this chapter or HACCP PLAN requirements;
(2) Past performance, for numerous repeat violations of this chapter or HACCP PLAN
requirements;
(3) Past performance, for complaints investigated and found to be valid;
(4) The hazards associated with the particular FOODS that are prepared, stored or served;
(5) The type of operation including the methods and extent of FOOD storage, preparation,
and service;
(6) The number of people served;
(7) Whether the population served is a HIGHLY SUSCEPTIBLE POPULATION; and
(8) Whether the establishment is properly implementing an APPROVED self-inspection
program.
08410 Frequency--Competency of inspectors (FDA Food Code 8-402.10).
(1) An authorized representative of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY who inspects a FOOD
ESTABLISHMENT or conducts plan review for compliance with this chapter shall have the
knowledge, skills, and ability to adequately perform the required duties.
(2) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall ensure that authorized representatives who inspect a
FOOD ESTABLISHMENT or conduct plan review for compliance with this chapter have
access to training and continuing education as needed to properly identify violations
and apply the chapter.
08415 Access--Allowed at reasonable times after due notice (FDA Food Code 8-402.11).
After the REGULATORY AUTHORITY presents official credentials and provides notice of the
purpose of, and intent to conduct, an inspection, the PERSON IN CHARGE shall allow the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY to determine if the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT is in compliance with this
chapter by allowing access to the establishment, allowing inspection, and providing
information and records specified in this chapter and to which the REGULATORY AUTHORITY is
entitled according to LAW, during the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT'S hours of operation and other
reasonable times.
08420 Access--Refusal, notification of right to access, and final request for access (FDA Food
Code 8-402.20).
If a PERSON denies access to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall:
(1) Inform the PERSON that:
- The PERMIT HOLDER is required to allow access to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY as
- Access is a condition of the acceptance and retention of a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT
specified under 08415 of this chapter; and
PERMIT to operate as specified under 08350(6).
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(2) Make a final request for access.
08425 Access--Refusal, reporting (FDA Food Code 8-402.30).
If after the REGULATORY AUTHORITY presents credentials and provides notice as specified under
08415, explains the authority upon which access is requested, and makes a final request for
access as specified under 08420, the PERSON IN CHARGE continues to refuse access, the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall provide details of the denial of access on an inspection report
form.
08430 Report of findings--Documenting information and observations (FDA Food Code
8-403.10).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall document on an inspection report form APPROVED by the
Washington State Department of Health:
(1) Administrative information about the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT'S legal identity, street and
mailing addresses, type of establishment and operation as specified under 08325(3),
inspection date, and other information such as type of water supply and SEWAGE
disposal, status of the PERMIT, and personnel certificates that may be required; and
(2) Specific factual observations of violative conditions or other deviations from this
chapter that require correction by the PERMIT HOLDER including:
- Failure of the PERSON IN CHARGE to demonstrate the knowledge of foodborne
- Failure of FOOD EMPLOYEES, CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEES, and the PERSON IN CHARGE
- Nonconformance with this chapter;
- Failure of the appropriate FOOD EMPLOYEES to demonstrate their knowledge of,
- Failure of the PERSON IN CHARGE to provide records required by the REGULATORY
- Nonconformance with CRITICAL LIMITS of a HACCP PLAN.
illness prevention, application of HACCP principles, and the requirements of this
chapter specified under 02105;
to demonstrate knowledge of their responsibility to report a disease or medical
condition;
and ability to perform in accordance with, the procedural, monitoring, verification,
and corrective action practices required by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY as
specified under 08120;
AUTHORITY for determining conformance with a HACCP PLAN as specified under
08215 (4)(f); and
08435 Report of findings--Specifying time frame for corrections (FDA Food Code 8-403.20).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall specify on the inspection report form the time frame for
correction of any violations.
08440 Report of findings--Issuing report and obtaining acknowledgment of receipt (FDA Food
Code 8-403.30).
At the conclusion of the inspection and according to LAW, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall
provide a copy of the completed inspection report and the notice to correct violations to the
PERMIT HOLDER or to the PERSON IN CHARGE, and request a signed acknowledgment of receipt.
08445 Report of findings--Refusal to sign acknowledgment (FDA Food Code 8-403.40).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall:
(1) Inform the PERSON who declines to sign an acknowledgment of receipt of inspectional
findings as specified under 08440 that:
- An acknowledgment of receipt is not an agreement with the findings;
- Refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt does not affect the PERMIT HOLDER’S
- A refusal to sign an acknowledgment of receipt is noted in the inspection report
obligation to correct the violations noted in the inspection report within the time
frames specified; and
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and conveyed to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY'S historical record for the FOOD
ESTABLISHMENT; and
(2) Make a final request that the PERSON IN CHARGE sign an acknowledgment receipt of
inspectional findings.
08450 Report of findings--Public information (FDA Food Code 8-403.50).
Except as specified under 08220, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall treat the inspection report
as a public document and shall make it available for DISCLOSURE to a PERSON who requests it
as provided in LAW.
08455 Imminent health hazard--Ceasing operations and reporting (FDA Food Code 8-404.11).
(1) Except as specified in subsections (2) and (3) of this section, a PERMIT HOLDER shall
immediately discontinue operations and notify the REGULATORY AUTHORITY if an
IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD might exist.
(2) A PERMIT HOLDER need not discontinue operations in an area of an establishment that is
unaffected by the IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD.
(3) Considering the nature of the potential hazard involved and the complexity of the
corrective action needed, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY may agree to continuing
operations in the event of an extended interruption of electrical or water service if:
- A written emergency operating plan has been APPROVED;
- Immediate corrective action is taken to eliminate, prevent, or control any FOOD
- The REGULATORY AUTHORITY is informed upon implementation of the written
safety risk and IMMINENT HEALTH HAZARD associated with the electrical or water
service interruption; and
emergency operating plan.
08460 Imminent health hazard--Resumption of operations (FDA Food Code 8-404.12).
If operations are discontinued as specified under 08455 or otherwise according to LAW, the
PERMIT HOLDER shall obtain approval from the REGULATORY AUTHORITY before resuming
operations.
Subpart E - Prevention of Foodborne Disease Transmission by Employees
08500 Investigation and control--Obtaining information--Personal history of illness, medical
examination, and specimen analysis (FDA Food Code 8-501.10).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall act when it has reasonable cause to believe that a FOOD
EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE has possibly transmitted disease; might be infected with a
disease in a communicable form that is transmissible through FOOD; might be a carrier of
infectious agents that cause a disease that is transmissible through FOOD; or is affected with a
boil, an infected wound, or acute respiratory infection, by:
(1) Securing a confidential medical history of the FOOD EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE
suspected of transmitting disease or making other investigations as deemed
appropriate; and
(2) Requiring appropriate medical examinations, including collection of specimens for
laboratory analysis, of a suspected FOOD EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE.
08505 Investigation and control--Restriction or exclusion of food employee, or summary
suspension of permit (FDA Food Code 8-501.20).
Based on the findings of an investigation related to a FOOD EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL
EMPLOYEE who is suspected of being infected or diseased, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY may
issue an order to the suspected FOOD EMPLOYEE, CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE, or PERMIT HOLDER
instituting one or more of the following control measures:
(1) RESTRICTING the FOOD EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE;
Part 8: Compliance and Enforcement Page 113
(2) EXCLUDING the FOOD EMPLOYEE or CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE; or
(3) Closing the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT by summarily suspending a PERMIT to operate in
accordance with LAW.
08510 Investigation and control--Restriction or exclusion order: Warning or hearing not
required, information required in order (FDA Food Code 8-501.30).
Based on the findings of the investigation as specified under 08500 and to control disease
transmission, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY may issue an order of RESTRICTION or EXCLUSION to
a suspected FOOD EMPLOYEE or the PERMIT HOLDER without prior warning, notice of a hearing,
or a hearing if the order:
(1) States the reasons for the RESTRICTION or EXCLUSION that is ordered;
(2) States the evidence that the FOOD EMPLOYEE or PERMIT HOLDER shall provide in order to
demonstrate that the reasons for the RESTRICTION or EXCLUSIONS are eliminated;
(3) States that the suspected FOOD EMPLOYEE or PERMIT HOLDER may request an appeal
hearing by submitting a timely request as provided in LAW; and
(4) Provides the name and address of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY representative to whom
a request for an appeal hearing can be made.
08515 Investigation and control--Removal of exclusion or restriction (FDA Food Code
8-501.40).
The REGULATORY AUTHORITY or PERSON IN CHARGE shall release a FOOD EMPLOYEE or
CONDITIONAL EMPLOYEE from RESTRICTION or EXCLUSION according to LAW and the conditions
specified under 02245, 02250, and 02255.
08520 Investigation and control--Procedure when disease transmission is suspected.
(1) When a possible foodborne illness incident is reported to any FOOD EMPLOYEE, the
PERSON IN charge of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT shall:
- Immediately report the incident to the REGULATORY AUTHORITY; and
- Remove from sale and refrigerate any suspect FOODS until released by the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
(2) When the REGULATORY AUTHORITY suspects that a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, or its
EMPLOYEES, might be the source of a foodborne illness, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY
shall take appropriate action to control the transmission of disease. This action may
include any or all of the following:
- Secure records that might enable identification of PERSONS potentially exposed to
- Secure the illness history of each suspected EMPLOYEE;
- EXCLUDE any suspected EMPLOYEE from working in the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT until,
- Suspend the PERMIT of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT until, in the opinion of the
- RESTRICT the work activities of any suspected EMPLOYEE;
- Require medical and laboratory examinations of any FOOD EMPLOYEE and of
- Obtain any suspect FOOD for laboratory examination;
- Require the destruction of, or placement of a hold order on, all suspected FOOD;
- Limit, substitute, or restrict menu items or FOOD handling practices that might be
the disease, or require additional assistance in locating such PERSONS;
in the opinion of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY, there is no further RISK of disease
transmission;
REGULATORY AUTHORITY, there is no further RISK of disease transmission;
his/her body discharges;
and
associated with causing illness.
(3) The provisions of chapter 246-100 WAC, Communicable and Certain Other Diseases,
apply.
Page 114 Washington State Retail Food Code
Subpart F - Enforcement
08600 Permits required, suspension, revocation, enforcement.
(1) Any PERSON operating a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT without a valid PERMIT issued by the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY may be guilty of a misdemeanor under RCW 70.05.120 and
local regulations.
(2) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may suspend any PERMIT to operate a FOOD
ESTABLISHMENT if:
- Continued operation of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT constitutes an imminent or actual
- Operations, facilities, or EQUIPMENT in the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT fail to comply with
- The PERMIT HOLDER does not comply with these regulations; or
- Interference with the REGULATORY AUTHORITY in the performance of its duties has
health hazard;
these regulations;
occurred.
(3) When the REGULATORY AUTHORITY has suspended a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT, the
PERMIT holder or PERSON IN CHARGE:
- Shall be notified in writing by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY that the FOOD
- Shall immediately cease all FOOD service operations until a hearing with the
- May request a hearing by filing a written request for a hearing with the
- Shall be notified, if a written request for a hearing is not filed within ten days, that
ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT is immediately suspended upon service of the notice;
REGULATORY AUTHORITY finds the operation to be in compliance with the
requirements and regulations;
REGULATORY AUTHORITY within ten days of receipt of the notice of suspension; and
the suspension is sustained.
(4) Any PERSON whose FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT has been suspended may at any time
make written application for a reinspection for the purpose of reinstatement of the
PERMIT. The application must include a signed statement explaining how the conditions
causing the suspension of the PERMIT have been corrected.
(5) Within two working days following receipt of a written request for reinspection, the
REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall make a reinspection, and reinstate the PERMIT if the
PERSON is in compliance with these regulations.
(6) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may adopt and use a PERMIT suspension process different
than specified under subsection (2), (3), (4), or (5) of this section.
(7) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may revoke a FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT after providing
the PERMIT HOLDER an opportunity for hearing if:
- Serious and repeated violation(s) of any requirements of these regulations have
- Repeated interference with, or assault upon a representative of the REGULATORY
occurred; or
AUTHORITY in the performance of his/her duty, has occurred.
(8) Before revocation, the REGULATORY AUTHORITY shall notify, in writing, the PERMIT
HOLDER of the specific reason(s) why the PERMIT is to be revoked. The notice must
state:
- That the PERMIT will be revoked at the end of the ten days following the notice
- If a request for a hearing is not filed by the PERMIT HOLDER within the ten-day
unless a written request for a hearing is filed with the REGULATORY AUTHORITY by
the PERMIT HOLDER within such ten-day period; and
period, the revocation of the PERMIT becomes final.
Part 8: Compliance and Enforcement Page 115
(9) Any PERSON whose FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT has been revoked by the REGULATORY
AUTHORITY, after a period of six months, may:
- Make written application for a new PERMIT; and
- Request a hearing with the REGULATORY AUTHORITY to determine whether a new
PERMIT will be issued.
(10) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may use a PERMIT revocation process different than
specified under subsections (7), (8), and (9) of this section.
(11) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may initiate any one, or a combination of, compliance
methods that include, but are not limited to:
- Holding an administrative conference with the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT PERMIT
- Placing the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT on probation;
- Setting conditions for continued operation of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT, by the
- Requiring additional education or training of EMPLOYEES, management, and
- Completing a HAZARD evaluation and requiring monitoring procedures be
HOLDER or PERSON IN CHARGE;
PERMIT HOLDER, during the probation period;
owners of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT; and
implemented for CRITICAL CONTROL POINTS identified.
08605 Service of notice.
(1) A notice provided for in these regulations is properly served when it is:
- Delivered to the PERMIT HOLDER;
- Delivered to the PERSON IN CHARGE of the FOOD ESTABLISHMENT; or
- Sent by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, to the last known
address of the PERMIT HOLDER.
(2) A copy of the notice must be filed in the records of the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
08610 Hearings.
(1) The hearings provided for in Part 8 must be:
- Conducted by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY or its designee, and
- Conducted at a time and place designated by the REGULATORY AUTHORITY.
(2) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY or designee shall:
- Make a final finding based upon the complete hearing record;
- Sustain, modify, or rescind any notice or order considered in the hearing; and
- Furnish a written report of the hearing decision to the PERMIT HOLDER.
(3) The REGULATORY AUTHORITY may adopt and use an alternate hearing process.
Part 9: Alternative Food Facilities Page 117