Food Safety

Spokane Regional Health District’s Food Safety Program protects public health by working with the food service industry and our community to prevent foodborne illness. In addition to food worker education and food establishment inspections, the Food Safety Program provides many other services, including investigation of complaints and illnesses associated with food establishments, plan review/pre-occupancy inspections of new or remodeled food establishments, and food safety consultations for permitted establishments. We also partner with community and food service representatives on our Food Advisory Committee, which provides guidance to our program.

In addition, we work with local charities to meet the growing need for safe, nutritious food to feed the hungry and homeless. Help challenge hunger in our community by donating food, appropriate meals, or your time to help the most vulnerable women, men and children in our community. For food donation guidelines, review the You Can Help! (pdf) brochure, or call (509) 324-1560, ext. 2.

The Food Safety Program is staffed by 8 environmental health specialists (inspectors) and a technical advisor, in addition to clerical and management support. We permit over 2300 permanent retail food establishments and nearly 200 temporary food establishments each year. We also issue nearly 15,000 food service worker permits annually. 

	Food Service Worker Permits Learn how to obtain a Food Service Worker’s Permit. Take the class online in English, or link to study guides in English, Chinese, Korean, Russian, Spanish and Vietnamese. Get information for taking the class and test at Spokane Regional Health District.
	Food Establishment Regulations and Resources Review the Washington State Food Code (Chapter 246-260 WAC) and related documents, download food safety handouts in English, Chinese, Spanish, Vietnamese, Russian, and Korean, and link to other food safety websites.
	New and Existing Food Establishments Get information about starting or continuing operation of a food establishment (including caterers, mobile units, and permanent establishments like restaurants and grocery stores). Learn about plan review requirements, fees, applications, ownership changes, and more. Obtain contact information for other agencies whose approval you may need.
	Temporary Food Establishments Learn about operating a food establishment at a temporary food event (including pancake breakfasts, spaghetti feeds, and booths at large events like Pig Out in the Park). Review requirements, handouts, applications, fees, and operational checklists.
	Inspections (coming) Spokane Regional Health District permits and inspects over 2300 permanent retail food establishments in Spokane County. Learn about food establishment inspections, view a sample inspection form, and link to a mock inspection.
	Reporting Unsafe Food Handling and Foodborne Illnesses (coming) Find out how to report unsafe food handling practices or a possible food borne illness. Access our automated sanitation complaint form.
	Consumer Resources & Food Recalls Access consumer food safety websites and learn about other agencies involved in food safety.