Food Permits

Notice: Temporary suspension of in-person services

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to provide you with the best solutions for our services during the COVID-19 event.

To reduce person-to-person contact, Customer Service counter services will be suspended until further notice. Most of our services can be accessed online. Please call us at 425-339-5250 if you have further questions.

Submittals will be accepted online or by mail. If you have a restaurant change of ownership, call 425-339-5250 or email EHQuestions@snohd.org.

The Snohomish Health District wants to help you get your business up and running with all of the proper permits to ensure your food establishment meets state regulations for food safety. Additional information on permitting for food establishments is contained on the Temporary Food Booths page and on the Starting a Food Business page.

Snohomish County Food Permits & Renewals

In order to operate a food service establishment, you must apply for an annual permit.

Required Establishments

A permit is required for the following establishments: 

  • Bakery
  • Food caterer
  • Food concession stands
  • Grocery
  • Limited groceries
  • Private clubs
  • Restaurants
  • Retail meat/fish dealers
  • Taverns
  • Temporary food booths
  • Vending machines (with potentially hazardous food)

The food service establishment permit is also used for changes in ownership.