Foods prepared for consumption by the public must be prepared in commercial facilities with approved equipment. Home preparation or processing of food for public consumption, other than food products produced by a cottage food business, is not allowed under Maryland State Regulations (COMAR 10.15.03).
A food service facility license is required whether food is sold or given away.
Below are the different types of food service facilities and required guidelines, review procedures, applications, forms and fees.
Additional Resources
FDA Oral Culture Learner Project – Educational Videos for Retail Food Employees
In an effort to enhance retail food safety, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released three video testimonials to educate retail and food service employees on the possible, dire consequences of poor preparation practices and provide tips to prevent foodborne illness. The videos support the FDA’s Retail Food Safety Initiative, which seeks to strengthen the retail and food service industry’s active managerial control of foodborne illness risk factors.
NEW: Online WCC Application for Certificate of Compliance
Educational Videos for Retail Food Employees
Code of Maryland Regulations - MDH Food Regulations
Procedures Following a Fire: Licensed Food Service Facilities
Procedures must be conducted following a fire and before a food service facility is approved to reopen for business.