Anyone planning to transfer ownership or acquiring an existing food business must notify Alameda County Environmental Health Department (ACEHD) to request a change of ownership inspection. ACDEH recommends interested parties contact this Department before taking ownership to acquire accurate information.

New owners must obtain their own permits from this Department prior to operating for business under the new ownership; permits are non-transferable. Violators who operate without the necessary permits shall be subject to closure of the food facility and a penalty not to exceed three times the cost of the permit (§114387).

How to prepare BEFORE the inspection:

• Contact our main office at (510) 567-6700 or email dehwebmain@acgov.org.
• An inspector will contact the requestor to schedule an inspection.*
  • * If a facility is closed and/or vacant, the prospective buyer shall instead request a site consultation and pay a service fee prior to scheduling an inspection.
• Procure documents regarding business owner verification (choose one):
  a) Corporation entity requires Articles of Incorporation and Federal Tax ID Number (EIN).
  b) Sole proprietorship and Partnerships require a Driver’s License Number or EIN.
• Obtain property owner’s and management company’s address and contact information.
•  Provide a copy of proposed menu, and do NOT make any equipment replacements, additions, or facility upgrades.

What happens DURING the inspection?

• A comprehensive inspection will be conducted to evaluate the facility, food equipment, plumbing fixtures, mechanical exhaust ventilation, water heater, and structural finishes.
• Major repairs, remodels, and changes in equipment may require a separate plan review process as determined by the inspector, which may prolong the new ownership application process. A plan check fee is billed for this service.

What happens AFTER the inspection?

Health Permit Not Approved

• Perform the repairs and complete corrections as directed on the inspection report before scheduling a final change of ownership inspection. A service fee will apply for all additional re-inspections.

Health Permit Approved

• Submit the signed permit application (green copy) with payment in-person or by mail to 1131 Harbor Bay Parkway, Alameda, CA, 94502. Online payments can be requested with an additional service fee.
  – Changes with how the business holds title after a permit has been issued will trigger another change of ownership inspection.
  – You may commence operation of business after paying required fees to obtain a valid permit.
• Reach out to other regulatory agencies for any applicable permits and licenses.
• Your health permit will be mailed to you within two weeks upon payment. The health permit shall be posted in a conspicuous place within the facility in public view at all times.