Margate, FL Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)

Section 18-17 sits in Article II of Chapter 18, which codifies the Broward County food establishment ordinance (No. 75-43) for use in the City of Margate. The training rule targets management, not every employee. At least one manager or supervisor must finish a course of at least six hours, conducted or approved by the health department, in basic food hygiene covering the proper storage, preparation and service of food and drink. Passing a written examination administered by the Broward County health department earns a certificate valid for two years, so a certified manager renews on a two-year cycle. The course fee is set by resolution of the board of county commissioners, not by the Margate City Commission. Once a manager is certified, trained management is responsible for training the establishment's other employees and can seek assistance from the health department when needed.

Section 18-13 defines management as anyone who conducts, directs the affairs of and carries on the business of a food establishment, including those responsible for operation and supervision. The training rule works alongside permitting. Section 18-14 bars operating a food establishment in Broward County without a valid permit or written approval from the Broward County health department, permits expire automatically on September 30 each year, and no occupational license is issued before the health department permit. Section 18-15 makes permits non-transferable between persons or locations, and Section 18-16 requires health department plan approval before any construction, extension or expansion of a food service establishment, food outlet or food processing plant. Section 18-12 adopts Chapters 10D-13, 10D-14 and 10D-15 of the Florida Administrative Code as part of the article.