Lake County, IL Public Health Rules: Food Handler Certification (2026)
Key Facts
- Who needs a certified manager
- Category 1 and 2 facilities
- Governing agency
- Lake County Health Department
- Max fine
- $500 per day
- Underlying permit
- Food service facility permit, § 173.04
Summary
Category 1 and Category 2 food service facilities in Lake County must operate under a certified food protection manager, under Health Department rules enforced countywide through the food service permit system.
Every Category 1 and Category 2 food service facility shall be under the operational supervision of a certified food protection manager as specified in the rules and regulations referenced in this subchapter.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-15: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. 26-0618, passed 6-9-2026 | State legislation current through ILCS Pamphlet 2025 #5).
Full Breakdown
Lake County Code § 173.10(A) puts every Category 1 and Category 2 food service facility (the higher-risk tiers covering cooked, cooled, reheated, or complex-prep food operations) under the operational supervision of a certified food protection manager, per the Health Officer's referenced rules. The Lake County Health Department issues the underlying food service facility permit required under § 173.04 and can suspend it if standards aren't met. Violating §§ 173.01-173.11, including the manager requirement, carries a fine up to $500 per day under § 173.99(B).
Violations & Fines
Fine up to $500 per day of violation; the Health Officer may also suspend the facility's food service permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every Lake County restaurant need a certified food protection manager?
What happens if a facility operates without a certified manager?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lake County
Compare Lake County to another location·View the Illinois public health rules overview
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