Environmental Health

SUGGESTIONS FOR PLANNING

A NEW OR REMODELED FOOD SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT

1.      Plans and specifications for construction or remodeling must be submitted to the Health Department for approval prior to construction beginning.  These plans must be drawn to scale, have the scale included and must include layout, arrangement, and construction materials of work areas, and the location, size, and type of fixed equipment and facilities.  Contact the Department for any fees and forms that may be associated with plan submission. (New establishments-$260.00; extensive remodel-$130.00) (See the review form for fees for new and remodeled establishments.)

2.      A valid permit must be obtained in order to operate any food establishment in DeKalb County.  An application should be obtained from this office, filled out completely, and returned with the applicable fee.  The establishment will then be inspected, and, if approved, a permit to operate will be issued.  Within the City of DeKalb, contact the Building Department in the Municipal Building as well.

3.      Check with your municipality or County Building Department for building codes and permits, correct zoning, etc.

4.      The Health Department must approve water supply and sewage disposal.  If you are located in an area that is not served by a municipal water supply or sewage disposal system, contact this office immediately for help with planning and for any necessary permits.

5.      A licensed plumber MUST do all plumbing.  Contact either the city or State plumbing inspector about requirements for plumbing in food establishments.  No plumbing may be installed or repaired by anyone other than a licensed plumber.  The State of Illinois Department of Public Health has plumbing inspectors on duty.  They can be contacted at 4302 North Main, Rockford.

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