The Snohomish County Health Department wants to help you get your business up and running with all the proper permits to ensure your food establishment meets state regulations for food safety. Additional information on permitting for NEW food establishments, as well as for making changes to an existing establishment, can be found on the Starting or Revising a Food Business page.
In order to operate a food service establishment, you must have a permit. A food permit ensures that your business complies with the local Snohomish County Health Department Code and the Washington State Retail Food Code. The type of permit you need will vary, depending on the type of food establishment.
Permits are required for a food service establishment to offer food to the public. Examples of different types of food establishments include restaurants, grocery stores, taverns, temporary food establishments, mobile food units , bed and breakfasts, bakeries, caterers, concession stands, retail meat/fish dealers, campground cafeterias, school cafeterias, and vending machines. Click on the type of permit you want to get more information on.