FAQs
Do I need a permit to sell, give away, or sample food at a community event?
Yes, a permit is always required to sell, give away or sample any food or drinks to the public.
How do I get a permit?
Once you are accepted to a community event you must complete the application at the link provided here: Temporary Food Facility Permit Application
Read all instructions on the application and submit the complete application at least 30 working days prior to the event date. Any incomplete applications will be rejected. Submit the application to dehwebbilling@acgov.org and pay your permit fee. After the application is reviewed by an inspector, you will be contacted by email regarding approval or denial. Check your email/junk mail and voicemail regularly. We may need to request more information from you. If we cannot make contact, the approval process will not continue.
I attend many temporary events during the year. Can I get an annual permit?
No. Annual TFF permits are not available in Alameda County.
I already have a permit for my restaurant in Alameda County. Does this permit cover me for temporary events?
No. The permit to operate a restaurant does not cover temporary events, even if the event it is on the street outside your facility.
What conditions are attached to the Temporary Food Facility (TFF) permit?
You must work in conjunction with a sponsored community event. You must complete the application and answer all questions on the application. A commercial kitchen agreement must be signed and submitted with your application if any food or beverage is prepared prior to the event. Foods are not allowed to be prepared at home unless you are an approved Cottage Food Operator. If you produce a packaged food and store that food for more than seven (7) days you must provide your CA Food Processor Registration with your application.
Will my TFF be inspected?
Yes. An inspector will inspect your TFF and determine compliance with the California Health and Safety Code (CalCode). These requirements are described on the TFF application, so read carefully to avoid temporary or permanent closure of the facility. You may also refer to https://www.acgov.org/aceh/food/Temporary-Event-Booth-PreinspectionSelf-Inspection-Form.pdf for questions regarding food safety requirements.
I am only fundraising. Do I still need to have a permit?
Yes. You may be approved for a fee exemption if you qualify under the Alameda County Ordinance Title 6. https://www.acgov.org/aceh/food/Fee-Exemption-Requirements.pdf and https://www.acgov.org/aceh/food/AlCo-NON-PROFIT-FORM-for-TFF.pdf. The request will be denied if qualifications are not met and regular fees will apply.
What other permits do I need?
You may need to contact California Alcoholic Beverage Control, California Board of Equalization for sales tax payments or the local fire department. Your event coordinator should be able to advise you.
Can I cook outside the booth?
Yes. BBQ and deep fat frying must be conducted outside the booth, in an area fenced off from the public. All other food prep must be inside the booth. Always check with your local Fire Department if you will be working with open flames.
Can we have a consultation from the Environmental Health Department to explain the requirements for organizing a community event?
The Special Events Coordinator may be able to schedule a meeting with you prior to the event. Submit your request for consult at dehtemevent@acgov.org at least 2 months before your event.
Do I need a Food Safety Certificate to sell food at a temporary event?
No. You are required to demonstrate knowledge in safe food handling. Please complete the food safety quiz attached to the TFF application and submit it with your application.
Who can I call if I have a question?
Please contact us by email at DEHTempevent@acgov.org