Food Licensing
Ensuring that local food establishments operate in a safe and sanitary manner.
Fixed, Mobile, or STFU Licenses
- Apply for a food service license for restaurants, mobile units, or STFU (Special Transitory Food Unit).
- Ensure compliance with local and state food safety regulations.
- Download: Food License Application and Instructions
- Download: STFU Intent to Operate Form
Temporary Food Service License
- Complete all required sections for temporary food service operations.
- Fill out Attachment A if applicable.
- Use the guide to help with your application.
- Download: Temporary Food License Application and Instructions
- Download: Temporary Food Establishment Safety Guide
Restaurant Inspection Reports
In the past year, VBCDHD conducted:
- 545 food inspections and 194 follow-ups conducted last year
- Issued 123 temporary licenses and 23 food truck licenses
- A total of 444 food service licenses in Van Buren and Cass Counties
Your Plan Review
We review new or remodeled food establishments to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local safety standards. Follow these steps to ensure your establishment is compliant and learn more:
Review plans for new construction or remodel of existing structure.
Ensure compliance with health codes before opening.
Emergency Action Plans
Fire
Flood
Power outages
Water/sewer interruptions
For emergency response, refer to the MDARD Emergency Action Plans for Retail Food Establishments Guide.
Emergency Contacts
911 – Sheriff’s Department
George Friday (Environmental Health Director): (269) 539-5503
Richard Conway (Food Service Supervisor): (269) 906-0301
Danielle Persky (Health Officer): (269) 539-500
Email: EH@vbcassdhd.org
Ensure Your Food Service is Safe
Contact us today to apply for licenses, schedule a plan review, or access food safety resources to keep your food business compliant and safe.
Resources
- Food Safety Education – Partnership for Food Safety Education.
- USDA – Food safety resources.
- FDA – Regulatory guidelines for food safety.
- MDARD – Food safety, foodborne illnesses, and recalls.