Obtaining a Public Health Permit/License

Welcome to the Environmental Health Division's Public Health Permit/License page. To obtain a permit for a newly constructed business, or change of ownership for an existing business, please see the instructions below.

New Facilities

Change of Ownership

Changes of ownership for any business must contact the program or district office to schedule an inspection to determine if the business is in compliance with appropriate health and safety codes. Complete the application and provide it to the inspector along with all the required documents when they come to complete the inspection. Please see the instructions for your type of business below for information on how to request a site evaluation of your business in order to obtain a permit.

Submitting Your Plan Electronically

Please visit our Electronic Plan Submittal Instruction Page.

Visit our Plan Check Program page to see which plan check type applies to you.

Pre-Application Consultations provide architects and designers with an opportunity to meet with a plan check specialist or subject matter experts to answer questions on State and local requirements for food facilities, public pools, body art facilities, cannabis facilities, water wells, onsite wastewater treatment systems, alternate water projects, solid waste sites, children's camps, or to discuss a proposal for a project.

The Pre-Application Consultations can assist applicants with code requirements and identify major site-specific issues prior to formal submission of a plan check service request application. This service also helps applicants to navigate efficiently through the various permitting and application processes.

To apply for this service, complete the Plan Check - Additional Services Request form . Request forms are available online, or at all Plan Check public counters.

To submit the Additional Services Request form online, contact the applicable programs below to receive a secured email:

Requests may be submitted in-person at 5050 Commerce Drive, Baldwin Park, CA 91706, between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday, except for holidays. Contact the offices above to obtain instructions on how to submit by email.

Fees for Pre-Application Consultations are based on hourly rates (minimum of 1 hour), as specified in the Public Health and Financial Management Fee Schedule . Do not submit your payment until you have received an invoice. Payment may be made in the following methods:

  • Pay Online: Pay online using Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or Discover), Debit Card, and Electronic Check (ECheck). Please note that there is an additional convenience fee charge using online payment.
  • Pay by Mail: Make check, cashier's check, or money order payable to:County of Los Angeles
    • Mail to:
      Department of Public Health
      5050 Commerce Drive
      Baldwin Park, CA 91706
    • Ensure to include your invoice number
    • DO NOT MAIL CASH
  • Pay In-Person: Make payment in person at any Environmental Health office locations throughout Los Angeles County, between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:30 pm, Monday through Friday. Acceptable forms of in-person payment include cash, check, cashier's check, or money order in the exact amount due. Refer to our Plan Check page for locations.

To help us prepare for your consultation, please submit any questions regarding code interpretation or requests for variances in writing with your application to allow adequate time to research your question or concern prior to the appointment. For the scheduled Pre-Application Consultation appointment, be sure to have a detailed list of questions and any available drawings of the project.

Note: The Department of Public Health may not have authority to grant variances for all State and local ordinances. In some cases, laws do not allow for the granting of variances and in other cases only the State may grant a variance.

Resources

Permit/License Application:
Public Health Permit/License Application

Current Permit/License Fees:
Public Health and Financial Management Fee Schedule

Payment and Questions

Do not send a payment for a Public Health Permit or License unless you have received an invoice from Public Health. When submitting a payment, please be sure to include the detachable portion of the invoice with your payment and write the account number and invoice number on your check. If you need a copy of a previously issued invoice, or have questions regarding what applications you need and the current fees, please contact our Permits and Licensing Program at EHPermits@ph.lacounty.gov or at (888) 700-9995, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (except for Holidays).

Animal Keeper License Application

For complete information about Animal Keeper, please visit our Animal Keepers Page.

Application Process

Body Art Practitioner Registration Requirements

All Body Art Practitioners ("artists") must be over the age of 18, must register with their local agency, and perform body art at a permitted facility. Registrations are only valid within Los Angeles County and may only be used outside of Los Angeles County as limited in California Health and Safety Code. To register with the County of Los Angeles you must provide the following:

By Mail

Completed and signed application, along with required documents, and fee may be mailed to:

Attention: Body Art Program
Environmental Health Headquarters
5050 Commerce Drive
Baldwin Park, CA 91706

Make Check, Cashier's Check, or Money Order payable to: County of Los Angeles

Do not mail cash.

In Person

Contact Body Art Program at (626) 430-5570 to make an appointment. Appointments are available from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

At the time of appointment

  • Bring completed application packet
  • Pay application fees

Body Art Facility

All Body Art Facilities, such as tattoo parlors, piercing shops, permanent makeup businesses, and microblading businesses, must have a Public Health Permit. Please visit our Body Art Events Frequently Asked Question page

For a New or Remodeling a Body Art Facility, submit the following:

For Change of Ownership of an Existing Body Art Facility, submit the following:

For more information regarding plan check, please review: Body Art Facility Plan Check Guideline

Body Art Temporary Event

A Public Health Permit is required to operate a Body Art Temporary Events and the body art practitioners participating in the event must have Public Health Permits.

For your convenience, we've prepare our Temporary Body Art Facility Requirements Checklist to help you meet the requirements.

To host and/or participate in a Body Art Temporary Event, review and submit the following:

Mobile Body Art Facility

A Public Health Permit is required to operate a mobile body art facility. Please contact the Body Art Program at (626) 430-5570 or bodyartprogram@ph.lacounty.gov for more information.

Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Training Provider

If you are interested in becoming an approved bloodborne pathogens exposure control course provider for the County of Los Angeles, refer to the training provider course requirements , then complete and submit the following:

Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Training Provider will need to renew their training certification every three (3) years. If you are already a course provider for the County of Los Angeles and need to update business, owner, billing/mailing, or training website information, complete and submit Bloodborne Pathogen Exposure Control Training Provider Update Form.

Refer to Fee Schedule

For complete information about body art, please visit our Body Art Page.

For Applicants in Contracted Cities

  1. Refer to Commercial Cannabis Facility Construction Requirements or contact Cannabis Compliance and Enforcement Program (CCEP) at (626) 430-5635.

  3. Once the plans are approved, obtain necessary licenses and permits from all applicable agencies prior to construction or remodel of the facility. Contact CCEP for a final inspection.

    Prior to the final inspection, the owner must submit the Public Health Permit (PHP) Application and Supplemental Application with required documents, and pay for the annual PHP fee.

  4. Public Health Permit is issued and you are approved to operate the cannabis facility.

For Cannabis Facility Public Health Permit Renewal

Please complete Cannabis Facility Public Health Permit Renewal Form and fill out each section completely and legibly. If there has been a change in ownership, do not complete this form and notify the Cannabis Compliance and Enforcement Program at (626) 430-5635 or ccep@ph.lacounty.gov as a new Public Health Permit Application needs to be submitted.

Return the renewal form via email to ccep@ph.lacounty.gov. Incomplete and illegible renewal form will not be accepted.

For complete information about cannabis, please visit our Cannabis Page.

Related Documents

If a catering facility plans to produce fresh non-pasteurized bottled juice, a Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan is required.

For complete information about catering facilities, please visit our Catering Facilities Page.

Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester

To become a Certified Backflow Tester, an individual must complete and pass a practical examination every two years. Applicants are required to demonstrate their ability to test double check valve assemblies, test reduced pressure principle backflow prevention devices, inspect pressure type vacuum breakers, and evaluate spill resistant pressure vacuum breakers.

Upon successful completion of the examination, the certification is valid for a two year period.

To qualify for the examination, an applicant must:

Exams are scheduled after the Application and fee are submitted. Public Health administers the exam about three times each month at the Backflow Testing Laboratory in Baldwin Park.

Certified Backflow Prevention Device Testers must be reviewed by Public Health every two years. The re-certification fee is also $340.00.

Employer of Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester

For complete information about certified backflow prevention device tester, please visit our Certified Backflow Tester Page.

Public Health Permits and Inspections for Certified Farmers' Market

To open a Certified Farmers' Market in any part of Los Angeles County, you must apply for a Certified Farmers' Market Public Health Permit and be approved to operate by the Specialized Food Services Program.

You will need to provide:

  • A completed Public Health Permit/License Application
  • Business or individual identity documents, such as a Business License, Seller's Permit, Articles of Incorporation, or California ID (Sole Proprietor), depending on the nature of your business
  • A Certified Farmers' Market certificate and the Certified Producer's Certificates (CPC) from the Agricultural Commissioner for all the farmers participating in the market. The Certified Farmers' Market Public Health Permit is not transferrable, and you must renew it annually.

Inspection Requirements

Health and safety inspections at Certified Farmers' Markets ensure that operations comply with Los Angeles County Code Titles 8 and 11, and the California Health and Safety Code. The requirements under these codes protect workers' health and safety and limit the potential for infectious diseases.

During routine inspections, we check for the following:

  • Producers and Market are certified by the Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner
  • Toilets and Hand sinks available and clean (violations must be corrected at once)
  • Toilet supplies available
  • Vermin infestations (violations must be corrected at once)
  • Rodent proofing
  • Wastewater discharges (violations must be fixed immediately)
  • Sanitation inside premises

Community Event Operating at a Farmer's Market

Community Events Organizer

A Community Event Organizer permit is required for anyone who organizes a community event that operates in conjunction with a Certified Farmers' Market.

Temporary Food Facilities (TFF)

A Temporary Food Facility (TFF) permit is required for anyone that sells or provides food or beverages that are not part of the approved CFM.

A TFF operating in conjunction with a certified farmers' market will need to submit a Temporary Food Facility Application to the Specialized Food Services Program for review and processing.

Visit the Community Event Page for more information on operating a TFF.

Applications and Requirements

Community Event Organizers:

Temporary Food Facilities or Food Vendors:

If a Temporary Food Facility (TFF) plans to sell fresh non-pasteurized bottled juice, a HACCP plan is required at the retail food establishment that produces juice.

For complete information about certified farmers' markets, please visit our Certified Farmers' Markets Page.

Children's Camps operating in Los Angeles County may need a Public Health Permit or a Public Health Registration, depending on the camp type, location and camp duration.

  • Children's Camps operating within incorporated cities are not required to obtain a Public Health Permit at this time. This may change as cities choose to adopt the Elena Matyas Children's Camp Safety Ordinance.
  • All Children's Camps in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are required to obtain a Public Health Permit if they operate more than four (4) weeks in any 12-month period.
  • Children's Camps in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are required to Register with Public Health if they operate four (4) weeks or less in any 12-month period.

All camps applying for a Public Health Permit for the first time must submit a Public Health Permit Application and Children's Camp Supplemental Application along with supporting documentation about ownership, staff qualifications, written operating procedures and plans, and the fee for review. All camps applying for Registration for the first time must submit a Children's Camp Registration Application , along with supporting documentation about ownership, staff qualifications, written operating procedures and plans, and the fee for review.

As part of the application review process, a site evaluation will be conducted to verify that all requirements are met. When the requirements are met, an invoice will be issued for the appropriate fee. The Public Health Permit or Registration will be mailed once the payment is received.

Each following year, camps renew by submitting a Notice of Intent to Operate (NOI) and updated written operating procedures and plans at least 30 days prior to camp operation. (Note: year-round camps do not need to submit a NOI each year.)

Please read our Guidance Document for Camp Permits and Registration for more information about the application process for permits/registration and the fees for each.

Written Procedures and Plans

Children's Camps must submit at least 60 days prior to the start of camp operations a written description of operating procedures and written plans that describe how the camp will address medical and other emergencies, transportation needs, specialized activities, insect and rodent concerns, and camper's health.

For complete information about children's camp, please visit our Children's Camp Page.

Environmental Health provides a convenient way to let you register for Class A Cottage Food Operator online.

For complete information about class A cottage food operators, please visit our Class A Cottage Food Operators Page.

Environmental Health provides a convenient way to let you start your Class B Cottage Food Operator application online.

For complete information about class B cottage food operators, please visit our Class B Cottage Food Operators Page.

Commercial Laundries Requirements

Commercial laundries are required to obtain a public health license and comply with Los Angeles County Code Titles 8 and 11. To receive a license, commercial laundries must complete an application and provide supporting documentation. The completed application should be turned in to Public Health at 5050 Commerce Dr. Baldwin Park, CA 91706.

Applications and Forms

Requirement for Application Processing

For complete information about commercial laundries, please visit our Laundries Page.

Application Process for Community Event Organizer/Temporary Food Facility Permit and Exemption Certification

An Exemption Certification, Event Organizer and Temporary Food Facility Application must be submitted at least 30 days before the event. Applications submitted less than 14 calendar days before the event (including those requesting a fee exemption) will be considered late and will be subject to a late fee equal to 25% of the permit fee or $50.00, whichever is greater. All fees must be paid at the time the application is submitted.

For complete permitting and application information, please visit the Community Events webpage. Contact the Community Events Program at (626) 430-5320 or email CommunityEvents@ph.lacounty.gov for any questions.

Get a Permit on Your Backflow Prevention Assemblies

Title 8 of the Los Angeles County Code requires all persons having backflow prevention assemblies to pay the Department of Public Health an annual administrative fee of $37 per assembly. This fee is for the annual processing of the test notice(s), overseeing the testing and certifying backflow prevention assembly testers (Sec. 8.04.728). Note: Test notices are sent separately from invoices.

Please visit our Cross Connection & Water Pollution Control Frequently Asked Questions page for Questions and Answers.

For complete information about cross connections and backflow prevention devices, please visit our Backflow Device Testing and Registration Page.

Custom Slaughterhouses are required to obtain a permit from the Department of Food and Agriculture Meat, Poultry, and Egg, Safety Branch. Public Health only inspect the retail portion of a custom slaughterhouse. If you are planning to open a new slaughterhouse, please contact Plan Check Program. There are many custom slaughterhouses that are in operation but Public Health do not inspect them because they do not have a retail portion.

For complete information about custom slaughterhouses, please visit our Custom Slaughterhouses Page.

Related Documents

For complete information about employee cafeterias, please visit our Employee Cafeterias Page.

Related Documents

For complete information about film production food services, please visit our Film Production Food Services Page.

Related Documents

Food Demonstrator Application

For complete information about food demonstrators, please visit our Food Demonstrators Page.

Public Health Permits for Food Warehouses

Please ensure you are always up to date and compliant with local regulations and hold a valid public health license in order to conduct business.

For complete information about food warehouses, please visit our Food Warehouses Page.

To operate a garment manufacturing business in any part of Los Angeles County other than the cities of Long Beach, Vernon, and Pasadena, you must have a license from Environmental Health and a State Certificate of Registration.

Sanitation and Licensing Requirements

Garment manufacturing establishments are required to obtain a public health license and comply with Los Angeles County Code Titles 8 and 11. These requirements protect the health and safety of workers and limit the potential for infectious disease to spread. Sanitation requirements include the need to have clean restrooms and drinking water for workers.

To apply for a Public Health License, a garment manufacturing business must complete the Application and provide the required documentation as described on the application form. Turn in the application and documentation to the Environmental Health Office at 5050 Commerce Drive, Baldwin Park, CA 91706.

If a licensed garment manufacturer makes changes to its business name, mailing address, or CEO/CFO, then a form to amend or update the License is required. When a licensed manufacturer closes, it should submit a delete/close license form.

License Waiver Requirement for Garment Industry Businesses That Are Not Manufacturing

The State of California Department of Industrial Relations requires all garment industry businesses to submit a Public Health License as part of the registration process. However, garment industry businesses that do not manufacture garments do not require a Public Health License. These include:

  • wholesale and/or retail
  • warehousing
  • design
  • show room
  • knitting fabric
  • garment broker
  • labor broker
  • office activities

Environmental Health can conduct a site evaluation to confirm if a garment industry business does not require a public health license and provide a notice to the State of California Department of Industrial Relations.

  • To request a site evaluation please complete the Public Health License Waiver Request Application and pay the fee. Please note, the fee is not refundable and the waiver is not transferable. Each request for a public health license waiver will require a new application and fee.
  • If any activities are found that would require a public health license, a public health license waiver will not be provided, and you will be directed to cease operations until a public health license is issued.

Applications and Forms

For complete information about garment and apparel facilities, please visit our Garment Manufacturing Facilities Page.

Complex water system designs will require a plumbing permit from the Los Angeles County Department of Building & Safety and a plan approval from Cross Connection & Water Pollution Control Program.

For complete information about graywater, please visit our Graywater Page.

If you are operating a hotel, motel, boarding home, boarding school, interim housing, or private school cafeteria, please ensure you are compliant with local rules and regulations and hold a valid Public Health License.

For complete information about Hotels, Housing Facilities, and Institutions, please visit our Hotels, Housing Facilities, and Institutions Page.

The Permitting Process

In the State of California it is illegal to operate a solid waste facility except under the terms and conditions of a Solid Waste Facility Permit. Although there are several regulatory tiers, the permitting of any but the smallest facility is a time consuming and expensive endeavor. Most transfer stations, whether they are new facilities, or an expansion of an existing facility, can take up to two years for the permitting process to be completed. Landfills are rarely permitted in less than ten years.

For complete information about landfills, please visit our Landfills Page.

How to Open a Business

To open a self-service laundry business in any part of Los Angeles County, you must apply for a Public Health Permit and be approved to operate by your local District Surveillance & Enforcement District Office.

You will be asked to provide business or individual identity documents, such as a Business License, Seller's Permit, Articles of Incorporation, or California ID, depending on the nature of your business.

The Public Health Permit is not transferrable and must be renewed annually.

For more information on requirements and how to apply, see below and contact your local District Office. You can find your District Office address and contact information by calling (888)700-9995 or by visiting District Office Page.

Application and Information

For complete information about self-service laundries, please visit our Self-service Laundries Page.

In general, any place of business where a massage is given by a massage technician for compensation (money) would require a public health permit if the business is in the unincorporated area of the County or in an incorporated city that adopted the County's massage ordinance. There are businesses that are not required to obtain a public health permit; please check our Massage Permit Exemption List .

To obtain a public health permit for a new massage establishment in the unincorporated area of the County, contact the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning (DRP) at Info@planning.lacounty.gov.

In order to obtain a public health permit within the following city that has adopted the County's massage ordinance: Malibu, complete a Public Health Permit Application and Supplemental Application. Submit the forms to the Environmental Health Division of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health via e-mail to: massageestablishment@ph.lacounty.gov

For cities that have not adopted the County's massage ordinance, contact the city agency directly for massage establishment licensing requirements.

For Frequently Asked Questions please read our New Requirements for Massage Businesses .

For complete information about massage establishments, please visit our Massage Establishments Page.

  • Applications for new cards or renewal can be requested by mail. Submit completed application package with specified documents below along with a passport color photo (taken within one month).
  • Completed and signed application, along with required documents, and fee may be mailed to:
    Attention: Medical Marijuana Program
    Environmental Health Headquarters
    5050 Commerce Drive
    Baldwin Park, CA 91706
  • Contact Medical Marijuana Program to make an appointment. No appointments will be processed after 4:00 p.m.
  • At the time of appointment
    • Bring completed application package
    • Pay application fees
    • Ready to be photographed

Application Packet

Packet includes the followings:

  1. Non-refundable application fee (Acceptable form of payment is money order, or cashier's check, made payable to County of Los Angeles)
  2. Passport color photo taken within one month (For Mail Submittal)
  3. Application/Renewal (CDPH-9042)
  4. Physician Attestation
  5. Medical documentation or Written Documentation of Patient's Medical Records (CDPH-9044)
  6. Acknowledgement Form
  7. Proof of Los Angeles County residency (Copy of current rent/mortgage agreement, California DMV vehicle registration, or recent utility bill. Please note P.O. Box address is not acceptable)
  8. Government issued photo identification (Valid and original government issued photo)

Application Fees

Fees Without Caregiver 1 Caregiver 2 Caregivers 3 Caregivers
Each Applicant $100.00 $200.00 $300.00 $400.00
Fees Each Applicant
Applicant w/o Caregiver $100.00
Applicant w/ 1 Caregiver $200.00
Applicant w/ 2 Caregivers $300.00
Applicant w/ 3 Caregivers $400.00

Appointments are required and available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the following locations:

Baldwin Park
5050 Commerce Dr.
Baldwin Park, CA 91706
Inglewood
9800 S. La Cienega Blvd #850
Inglewood, CA 90301
(310) 338-3200 Press #1 and #5

For complete information about medical marijuana identification card, please visit our Medical Marijuana Identification Card Page.

Micro Markets Related Documents

Since micro markets have similar layouts, business owners can have a "standard plan" approved by our Plan Check Program and use that plan for future micro markets at other business locations. When using an approved standard plan, the business owner can apply for the permit directly to our Specialized Food Services Program.

Please refer to the Micro Markets: Guidelines and Standard Plan Approval and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) for more details.

For complete information about micro market, please visit our Micro Markets Page.

Updates

Mobile Food

Recent Updates for Mobile Food Facility Permits

On February 6, 2024, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved changes to health permits, fees, and services for mobile food businesses that took effect on March 6, 2024. View the Changes Announcement and the New Mobile Food Facilities Fee Schedule for more information.

Updated: 2024-05-14

How to become a Mobile Food Vendor

Anyone over 18 years of age can get a mobile food facility permit. You don't have to be a U.S. resident or citizen to get a public health permit. Public Health will NOT ask questions regarding your residency status.

All mobile food facilities must be inspected before selling food to the public. New trucks and carts may also go through the Plan Check process. The fee for the Public Health Permit and permitting process is different depending on what type of equipment will be needed to safely serve the planned menu items.

Permitted food facilities must follow all local rules about land use and are not allowed to expand operations in a way that blocks the sidewalk.

Information on Mobile Food Facility Permits

The Plan Check Guide covers the requirements for constructing and operating a mobile food facility. The Guide answers many technical questions about the plan check process.

The Commissary Guidance provides the basic requirements needed for a Commissary that supports mobile food facilities. The Guide provides a checklist of items to determine if a kitchen would meet the requirements.

Commissary Lists

For complete information about food trucks, please visit our Food Trucks Page.

Organized Camps located anywhere in Los Angeles County need a Public Health Permit to operate.

Camps applying for a Public Health Permit for the first time must submit a Public Health Permit Application and Organized Camp Supplemental Application , along with a copy of ACA Certification or Written Operating Procedures, and the fee for review.

As part of the application review process, a site evaluation will be conducted to verify that all requirements are met. When the requirements are met, an invoice will be issued for the appropriate fee. The Public Health Permit will be mailed once the payment is received.

Each following year, camps renew by submitting a Notice of Intent to Operate (NOI), ACA Certification or updated written operating procedures and plans at least 30 days prior to camp operation. (Note: year-round camps do not need to submit a NOI each year.)

Please read our Guidance Document for Camp Permits and Registration for more information about the application process for permits/registration and the fees for each.

ACA Certification or Written Procedures

Organized Camps must submit at least 60 days prior to the start of camp operations a written description of operating procedures and written plans that describe how the camp will address medical and other emergencies, transportation needs, specialized activities, insect and rodent concerns, and camper's health.

For complete information about organized's camp, please visit our Organized Camp Page.

How to open a business

To open a pet or animal food store in any part of Los Angeles County, you must apply for a Public Health Permit and be approved to operate by your local District Surveillance and Enforcement District Office.

You will be asked to provide business or individual identity documents, such as a Business License, Seller's Permit, Articles of Incorporation, or California ID, depending on the nature of your business.

The Public Health Permit is not transferrable and must be renewed annually.

Application and Information

Sanitation and Licensing Requirements

Health and safety inspections at pet and animal food stores ensure that facilities comply with the California Health and Safety Code and the Los Angeles County Code Titles 8 and 11. These requirements protect the health and safety of workers and limit the potential for infectious disease to spread.

For complete information about pet and anminal food stores, please visit our Pet and Animal Food Stores Page.

Applications and Information

For complete information about recycled water reuse sites, please visit our Alternate Water System Plan Submission Page.

If you have a retail restaurant or food market business, please ensure you are always up to date and compliant with local regulations and hold a valid public health license in order to conduct business.

For complete information about restaurants and retail food stores, please visit our Restaurants and Retail Food Stores Page.

To operate a school cafeteria in any part of Los Angeles County other than the cities of Vernon, and Pasadena, you must enter into a Service Agreement for Food Safety Inspections with the Department of Public Health Environmental Health Division.

School districts must submit 3 copies of the Service Agreement for Food Safety Inspections in Public School Cafeterias to the Program Planning Program of Environmental Health.

For more information on requirements and how to enter into a Service Agreement for Food Safety Inspections in Public School Cafeterias, please see the information below.

Applications and Information

Sanitation and Inspection Requirements

School food safety inspections are required to comply with California Health and Safety Code. These requirements protect the health and safety of workers and limit the potential for infectious disease to spread. A more complete list of the sanitary requirements is provided in the link below.

School Districts interested in entering into a service agreement with Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Environmental Health, must send 3 copies of the Service Agreement for Food Safety Inspections to Environmental Health Office at 5050 Commerce Drive, Baldwin Park, CA 91706. Charter schools must provide the required documentation as described on the Charter School Cafeteria Food Service Requirements . If there are any changes to a school's name, school address, mailing address, then contact the Program Planning Program.

For complete information about school cafeterias, please visit our School Cafeterias Page.

Conventional Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS)

Home and business property owners that want to install or replace an onsite wastewater treatment system must submit an application and the required documents listed on the application in order to go through the OWTS review process.

For more information on requirements and procedures for Conventional and Non-conventional Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems.

A listing and delisting 303(d) of new impaired water body can be reviewed at: 2024 California Integrated Report, Appendix J

Property owners with existing Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems must have a system evaluation completed by a qualified professional when proposing property improvements.

Non-Conventional Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (NOWTS)

Home and business property owners that want to install a NOWTS must submit a covenant and agreement form.

For complete information about onsite wastewater treatment system, please visit our Onsite Wastewater Treatment System Page.

Permit Application

Businesses that clean septic tanks, cesspools, chemical toilets, and sewage seepage pits are required to obtain an annual Public Health Permit to register their sewage cleaning and carrying vehicles. Submit an application along with the required information listed in the "Required Documentation" section on page 1 of the application.

Download Public Health Permit/License Application and Sewage Cleaning Vehicle Registration Application

Ongoing Documentation

Businesses are required to submit Quarterly Pumper Truck Reports electronically to the Department of Public Health Land Use Program at dlanduse@ph.lacounty.gov.

Download Pumper Truck Quarterly Reporting Template

For complete information about sewage pumping vehicles or chemical toilets, please visit our Sewage Pumping Vehicles and Chemical Toilets Page.

The County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health - Environmental Health Division approves and permits Shared Kitchen Complexes, and tenants, based on requirements found in the part 7, of the California Health and Safety Code and the Los Angeles County Code, Title 8 and Title 11.

Shared Kitchen Complexes (SKC) are food facilities approved for the exclusive purpose of providing commercial space and equipment to multiple individuals or business entities which commercially prepare or handle food that will be offered for sale. The SKC operator provides individual preparation space to a tenant, while providing shared spaces for food storage, utensil washing or other support for tenants to use in common.

Shared Kitchen Complex Tenants, once approved by the complex operator, will need to submit the Shared Food Facility Supplemental application , along with the Public Health Permit application .

If a food facility plans to produce fresh non-pasteurized bottled juice, Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plan is required.

For additional information about Shared Kitchen Complexes, please visit our Shared Kitchen Complex Page.

Updates

Mobile Food

Recent Updates for Mobile Food Facility Permits

On February 6, 2024, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved changes to health permits, fees, and services for mobile food businesses that took effect on March 6, 2024. View the Changes Announcement and the New Mobile Food Facilities Fee Schedule for more information.

Updated: 2024-05-14

Wondering how to get started as a compact mobile food operator? We have created a toolkit to help ease the process in getting started on your CMFO journey in Los Angeles County. Visit our Sidewalk Food Vending Page to learn more.

Checklist - How to Apply for Permit:

Process Roadmaps:

Application Packets:

  • New, Custom Built CMFO Packet (A new personalized cart built to support the menu or operation of the CMFO)
    English ⋅ Español
  • Previously Permitted CMFO Packet (A cart that was permitted to a previous owner to operate a CMFO in Los Angeles County)
    English ⋅ Español
  • Standard Plan CMFO Packet (A plan/blueprint that has been preapproved by the Environmental Health Division to construct a specific CMFO cart)
    English ⋅ Español

Permit Application Documents

Mobile Food Facility Route Information

All mobile food facilities are required to notify Public Health of their route and schedule of when and where food sales will be conducted, and must provide an update anytime significant changes occur to the route or schedule (Los Angeles County Code, Title 8, section 8.04.403).

Update of the days, times, and locations of where the food cart will be operating can be done through one of the following platforms:

  1. Mobile Food Facility Route Information
  2. Post on social media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Yelp, or others)*
  3. Submit an update at https://trucks.bestfoodtrucks.com/signup/reporting*

*Note: These companies are not endorsed by the Department of Public Health.

Application

The Permitting Process

In the State of California it is illegal to operate a Solid Waste Facility without a Solid Waste Facility Permit (SWFP). For information on how to apply for a solid waste permit, please contact your LEA or visit CalRecycle website

  • At the time a SWFP is submitted to the CalRecycle for concurrence, the LEA must certify that the Lead Agency has evaluated the project for its environmental effects under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
  • A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) should be obtained from the city where the proposed project will be sited before an application for a SWFP is submitted to the LEA. Depending on the project scope, the lead agency will determine if the proposed project is subject to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) or exempt. If subject to CEQA, the lead agency prepares initial study (IS) to determine if the proposed project could potentially result in significant adverse environmental impacts.
  • At the time a SWFP is submitted to the CalRecycle for concurrence, the LEA must certify that the facility will be operated in such a way as to achieve an acceptable level of health and safety, in conformance with State Minimum Standards for solid waste handling and disposal.
  • At the time an Application for a SWFP is submitted, the LEA will also require a very detailed description of the project. This detailed description will be contained in a Report of Facility Information (RFI) whose detailed contents are spelled out in state regulations. The LEA will rely on the RFI to make this determination.
  • A solid waste facility may also need permits from the State Air or Water Boards, the State Department of Toxic Substance Control. Locally, there might be sewer connection permits and/or waste-water discharge permits, as well as building permits and construction permits that may be required.

For complete information about solid waste facilities, please visit our Solid Waste Facilities Page.

Los Angeles County requires property owners to demonstrate that their private domestic water well provides an adequate supply of potable water suitable for domestic use.

Private and Commercial Water Wells

To apply for a permit and learn more about requirements for water wells, please review the guides below.

For complete information about State small water systems wells, please visit our State Small Water Systems Wells Page.

Application and Requirements

For complete information about swimming pools, please visit our Public Pools Page.

Certified Swimming Pool Service Technician / Technician Apprentice

To become LA County certified, the applicant must pass a one-time examination given for the purpose of demonstrating knowledge and competency as specified in Los Angeles County Code, Title 11. The Technician exam consists of 80 multiple choice questions and 10 calculations for a total of 100 possible points. There is also a second classification and exam for those that may be learning the trade as Certified Technician Apprentice. The Technician Apprentice must be employed by and working under the direct and immediate supervision of a Certified Technician. The apprentice classification is currently available, but plans are underway to eliminate it. The Technician Apprentice exam consists of 30 multiple choice questions for a total of 30 possible points. A score of at least 70% for either exam is required to obtain certification. Study materials are available on the Environmental Health website to prepare the applicant for the exam. The exam questions are based on the information in the study materials.

To schedule for the exam, an applicant must:

Examination fees are non-refundable, and the exam must be taken within one year after payment of the fee. There is a new fee each time the applicant makes a reservation for the exam. The Technician examination is scheduled at least once a month and seating is limited. The Technician Apprentice examination is scheduled as needed. Payment for the Technician examination is due at least one week prior to the reserved exam. If the payment isn't received one week before the exam date, the reservation will be cancelled, and the seat offered to those on the waiting list. Reservations will be accepted when a completed application is filed and processed by the Recreational Waters Program.

Upon becoming certified, the technician is required to pay a yearly fee to maintain certification. The renewal is mailed in May and the certification will expire on June 30 of each year. LA County Code 11.34.120 requires that "Any person failing to renew his certification within two years of the expiration date shall be required to make a new application therefor and retake the examination in order to become recertified."

For complete information about swimming pools, please visit our Swimming Pool Service Technician Page.

How to open a business

To open a theatre in any part of Los Angeles County, you must apply for a Theater Public Health Permit and be approved to operate by your local District Surveillance and Enforcement Branch (DSE) office.

You will be asked to provide business or individual identity documents, such as a Business License, Seller's Permit, Articles of Incorporation, or California ID, depending on the nature of your business.

The Theatre Public Health Permit is not transferrable and must be renewed annually.

For more information on requirements and how to apply, see below and contact your local District Offices. You can find your District Offices address and contact information by calling (888)700-9995 or visiting our District Offices page.

Applications and Information

For complete information about theaters, please visit our Theaters Page.

A Los Angeles County Tobacco Retail License (TRL) is required for all tobacco retail facilities operating in unincorporated Los Angeles County:

  • Los Angeles County Code § 11.35.030 requires all tobacco retailers (e.g., markets, liquor stores, gas stations, cigar shops, vape shops, cigar lounges and hookah lounges), that operate in unincorporated Los Angeles County to obtain a TRL before selling tobacco, tobacco products and/or tobacco paraphernalia. The TRL must be prominently displayed in a publicly visible location at the licensed premises.
  • In addition, Los Angeles County Code § 7.83.030 requires all tobacco shops or smokers' lounges operating in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County must obtain a Los Angeles County Tobacco Shop business license before selling tobacco, tobacco products and/or tobacco paraphernalia. A Tobacco Shop is any retail business devoted exclusively or predominantly to the sale of tobacco, tobacco products, and tobacco paraphernalia, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and any components, parts, or accessories. To obtain a Tobacco Shop business license contact the Business Licensing Section of the Treasurer and Tax Collector's Office at (213) 974-2011 or businesslicense@ttc.lacounty.gov.
  • To determine if your business is located in an unincorporated area of Los Angeles County, please visit Los Angeles County Enterprise GIS District Locator and enter your business address to see if it is located in an "unincorporated" area.
  • Tobacco retail facilities are also required to obtain a California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) Permit to engage in the sale of tobacco products in California.

To apply for or ask questions about a Tobacco Retail License, please contact the Tobacco Control and Prevention Program at (213) 351-7890 or email tobacco1@ph.lacounty.gov.

For complete information about tobacco retail store, please visit our Tobacco Retail Facilities Page.

More information on waste tires, permits, and inspections is available at the CalRecycle website. Please review the Tire Management page for questions about waste tires.

CalRecycle Tire Management page

Please contact Solid Waste Permitting & Surveillance Program for questions regarding inspections.

For complete information about waste tire sites, please visit our Waste Tires Page.

Applications and Information

For complete information about wholesale food, please visit our Wholesale Food Page.

Requirements

Wiping rag businesses are required to obtain a public health license and comply with California Health and Safety Code, California Code of Regulations, and Los Angeles County Code Title 8.

To receive a license, wiping rag businesses must complete an application and provide supporting documentation. The completed application should be turned in to Environmental Health at 5050 Commerce Dr. Baldwin Park, CA 91706.

Application

For complete information about wiping rag businesses, please visit our Wiping Rag Page.

Applications and Information

For complete information about X-rays and radioactive devices, please visit our X-Rays and Radioactive Devices Page.