Food Protection Program

The Food Protection Program is responsible for the enforcement of the California Retail Food Code (CalCode). These standards are for any facility or entity that sells or gives food or drinks to the public.

Our Registered Environmental Health Specialists issue permits and inspect all retail food facilities in the county, such as restaurants, amphitheaters, hospitals, bars, markets, school cafeterias, bakeries, mini-marts and convenience stores, retail stores that sell pre-packaged food, mobile food vendors and special/temporary event booths. Additionally, our Specialists investigate consumer complaints about restaurants and other food facilities. 

Our food facility inspections are designed to minimize the occurrence of the five most critical risk factors for foodborne illness: food from unsafe sources; inadequate cooking temperatures; improper holding temperatures; contaminated equipment; poor employee hygiene.

Resources for Businesses

If you are opening a new or remodeling an existing food facility or mobile food facility, you will need to submit a plan check application.

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Permanent Food Facilities are those operating in a permanently constructed structure.

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A community event permit helps to ensure that food at public events is safe to consume and is prepared under clean conditions.

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Certified Farmer's Markets are locations certified by the Yuba County Agricultural Commissioner where local farmers can sell their products to the public.

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Learn more about State licensing requirements for manufacturing, packing, processing, holding, and distribution of food products.

Certain foods, like baked goods, jams and candy are allowed to be prepared in home kitchens.

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A mobile food facility (MFF) is a mobile restaurant like a food truck. Any mobile cart or trailer where you can purchase food is also considered a MFF.

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Caterers supply food and related services at private or public functions held somewhere other than where the food was prepared.

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What happens to extra food at grocery stores, hotels and restaurants? Click below to learn about the Feed it Forward program which encourages donating surplus food.

State Processing Information

Food Processor

If you wish to prepare and package a food product and sell it to the general public, you may be required to obtain a Processed Food Registration and/or Cannery License with the California Department of Public Health Food and Drug Branch . The Food and Drug Branch (FDB) regulates the manufacturing, packing, processing, holding, and distribution of food products in California. California law requires that businesses obtain an FDB license, certificate, or registration for these activities.

Milk and Dairy Activities

Food CodePlease be advised that all food facilities that provide the following shall obtain proper licenses from the California Department of Food and Agriculture Milk and Dairy  Food Safety Services:

  • Provides soft–serve ice cream, non-dairy frozen dessert or frozen yogurt or
  • Repackages milk and dairy products from their original containers for individual sale.