Questions to Ask the Health Department

[Bumppo]

Looking for advice from those that have gone into bbq business or have attempted it.

So I've mentioned briefly on here a couple times that we're in the process of starting up a small pop-up/catering business. We've had a great time working on recipes and brainstorming stuff like marketing, but its getting to the point where we're ready to get more into the boring business side of everything. So far, we've been lucky enough to secure a commercial kitchen at no cost, so the next step is to talk to the health department before we can really figure out more logistics and move forward.

I know all states and counties are going to have different rules, but I'm just looking for ideas for what I should be asking. I obviously know the standard food safety rules, but I'm looking for more business related information. I've got a list of incomplete thoughts, but I'm sure I'm forgetting a lot of things I should be wondering about.

I don't expect you guys to answer these questions, but here are a few examples of the sort of things I'm planning to ask:
-Are there any rules about the type of smoker I can use?
-Is there a difference in regulations between catering a private event or individual sales at a public event?
-Do we need separate permits/inspections when working outside the local health department's jurisdiction?

I have a lot more questions in my notes. These are just a few. What did you ask or wish you had asked when dealing with the health department?

 

[JLinza]

I'm not expert in this by any means. But I belive here in Colorado you are required to have a "Mobile vendor permit". For a food truck or transport of food. Obviously could be very different for your area, but it might be worth an ask. Also here in CO they may require you to get Comercial auto insurance for your vehicle (Colorado has some dumb laws lol ). You may have thought of these already, but that's my 2 cents. Good luck with your adventure.

 

[sandyut]

Colorado has some dumb laws lol

WHAT! No, not here...bahahhahaha

 

[Brokenhandle]

I would just ahead and contact the local officials. Instead of trying to figure out what you all need to ask them, they might be the best ones to answer that question for you. Or have a website or materials that would tell you the exact steps you need to take.

Ryan

 

[Bumppo]

I'm not expert in this by any means. But I belive here in Colorado you are required to have a "Mobile vendor permit". For a food truck or transport of food. Obviously could be very different for your area, but it might be worth an ask. Also here in CO they may require you to get Comercial auto insurance for your vehicle (Colorado has some dumb laws lol ). You may have thought of these already, but that's my 2 cents. Good luck with your adventure.

Is the mobile vendor permit the like a classification from the health department? That terminology at least in one city here is basically more like a temporary business permit with the city for things like food truck events.

I hadn't thought about the potentially having to do anything like that with my pickup. I'll check into that. Thanks!

 

[Bumppo]

I would just ahead and contact the local officials. Instead of trying to figure out what you all need to ask them, they might be the best ones to answer that question for you. Or have a website or materials that would tell you the exact steps you need to take.

Ryan

I know you're right. I guess I'm an over-planner. I've had plenty of things pop up in my day job that isn't at all taught, even in paid training courses, even though they're absolutely necessary to know.

I'd rather not run into that sort of situation down the line and find out that there is some sort of insurmountable barrier that stops us from moving forward. As long as we get our ducks in a row ahead of time, our business plan is actually very achievable by taking baby steps and maintaining such a low overhead.

 

[JLinza]

Is the mobile vendor permit the like a classification from the health department? That terminology at least in one city here is basically more like a temporary business permit with the city for things like food truck events.

I hadn't thought about the potentially having to do anything like that with my pickup. I'll check into that. Thanks!

Honestly, not certain but it seems like a requirement for any transport of food here. I would also ask them. But wouldn't rely solely on any governmental department to give you every detail.