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Restaurant food

New Establishments and Annual Permitting

*All new and existing food service establishments are required to have a permit

The Douglas County Health Department Food Program enforces the Illinois Food Service Sanitation Code through the Douglas County Food Sanitation Ordinance which has been approved by the Douglas County Board. The primary objective of the food sanitation program is the protection of the consumer by assuring that food provided by food service establishments and retail food stores is protected against contamination by infectious agents or adulteration by toxic material. The Douglas County Food Sanitation Ordinance requires the issuance of permits to operate food service establishments and requires inspection of food service establishments (schools, restaurants, retail food stores, grocery stores, daycare centers, caterers, mobile food units, taverns, etc.) to assure food is received, stored, prepared, and served in a sanitary and wholesome manner. The ordinance covers all areas of Douglas County and requires all food service establishments to obtain an operating permit from the Health Department prior to opening and annually thereafter.​

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​​What is a Plan Review?

 

The purpose of a plan review is to verify that your facility’s structure, equipment, and practices are in compliance with the Douglas County Food Ordinance and Illinois State Law. The rules and regulations were designed toward the prevention of foodborne illness and the meeting of consumer expectations for a safe and sanitary food service.

When Are Plans Required?

 

A permit applicant or permit holder shall submit to the Douglas County Health Department a plan review package for:

  • Construction of a food service establishment, mobile food unit or retail food store.

  • The conversion of an existing structure for use as a food service establishment, mobile food unit or retail food store.

  • The remodeling of a food service establishment, mobile food unit or retail food store.

  • Change of ownership. Contact the Douglas County Health Department immediately, as permits are not transferable.

What is included in a Plan Review?

 

The contents of the plans and specifications for a food service establishment, mobile food unit or retail food store should include the following:

  • Plan review application.

  • One set of architectural plans to scale, containing mechanical, plumbing, electrical & HVAC schematics, construction materials, finish schedules and equipment layout.

  • Equipment specification sheets to include proposed equipment types, manufacturer’s model numbers, dimensions, performance capabilities, and installation specifications.

  • Previously owned equipment can be used only if it is inspected and approved prior to installation.

  • Intended menu.

More questions? Please review our FAQ document. 

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