Washington Statewide Rule
Washington Mobile Food Unit Permit and Health Standards
Key Facts
- Authority
- WAC 246-215
- Commissary
- Permitted base required
- Manager Cert
- Food protection required
- Permit
- Local health jurisdiction
Summary
Washington WAC 246-215 enforced under RCW 43.20 establishes the statewide retail food code requiring mobile food units including food trucks to obtain permits from local health jurisdictions and meet uniform sanitation standards.
To qualify for a permit, an applicant shall: (1) Be an owner of the food establishment or an officer of the legal ownership; (2) Comply with the requirements of this chapter; (3) As specified under WAC 246-215-08415, agree to allow access to the food establishment and to provide required information; and (4) Pay the applicable permit fees at the time the application is submitted.
Full Breakdown
WAC 246-215 adopts the FDA Food Code with Washington amendments, applying to all mobile food units statewide. Operators must obtain a permit from the local health jurisdiction where they primarily operate, with reciprocal recognition through interlocal agreements. Requirements include a permitted commissary kitchen for food preparation and waste disposal, certified food protection manager training, hot and cold holding equipment, handwash sinks with hot water, and three-compartment sinks for utensil washing. RCW 43.20.050 grants the State Board of Health authority to adopt these uniform standards.
Violations & Penalties
Operating without a health permit, lacking commissary affiliation, or failing inspections triggers immediate closure under RCW 70.05.060 with civil penalties up to $1,000 per violation imposed by local health officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I operate a food truck in multiple Washington counties on one permit?
Do I need a commissary kitchen for my Washington food truck?
Sources
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