A temporary event coordinator is an individual that plans, organizes and implements a temporary event involving two or more temporary food service facilities. A temporary food service facility is one operating for no more than 30 consecutive days at a fixed location in conjunction with an event such as a fair, carnival, public exhibition, construction project, recreational facility or similar gathering. The temporary event coordinator is responsible for ensuring the following public health requirements are met.
Food Service Facility License and Inspection Requirements
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for notifying food service facility vendors of the requirement to obtain a temporary food service facility license from the Anne Arundel County Department of Health. A temporary food service facility permit application must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event. Late fees apply to applications received after this timeline. Food may not be served to the public at the event unless a license is issued to the temporary food service facility vendor.
Water Supply
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for ensuring an adequate water supply is provided to each temporary food service facility vendor. Water from a private well must be tested for bacteria and nitrate-nitrogen. Test results must be submitted to the Department of Health before a water supply may be placed in use and before food is served to the public. Only food grade hoses (not garden hoses) may be used as an approved water source for each temporary food service facility vendor.
Wastewater Disposal
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for ensuring the disposal of wastewater from ware washing, handwashing and wipe cloths in an approved manner. The temporary event coordinator must provide a designated location for the disposal of wastewater, which includes a mop sink, toilet facility or the use of an on-site holding tank and a licensed liquid waste hauler.
Toilet and Handwashing Facilities
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for ensuring adequate toilet facilities are provided for the event. Toilet facilities must be provided in proximity to the temporary food service facility vendors and must be maintained free from nuisances. Where potable water under pressure is available, hot and cold running water, hand soap and paper towels must be provided in or immediately adjacent to the toilet facilities. When temporary toilet facilities are made available, warm water, soap and paper towels must be provided.
Trash Storage, Disposal and Recycling Requirements
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for the proper storage and disposal of trash throughout the event. Leak-proof trash containers with tight-fitting lids that are sufficient in size and number must be provided to prevent the overflow of trash. Plastic trash bags may not be used alone, since plastic bags are subject to breakage and may result in a health nuisance. A combination of leak-proof trash containers tight-fitting lids and plastic bags are recommended for the storage and disposal of trash throughout the event.
In addition to trash storage and disposal, recycle containers must be provided for events that: (a) use a public street, public park or publicly owned property or facility; (b) serve food or drink; and (c) expect 200 or more people to attend. Recycle containers must be conveniently located adjacent to trash containers and must be clearly labeled to address the collection and recycling of paper, plastic, metal and glass throughout the event.
Dust Control/Standing Water
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for ensuring dust control measures are in place throughout the event. Spray trucks using clean liquid water may be used to control dust in areas where soil from dry weather conditions and vehicle traffic is expected to cause excessive dust. The temporary event coordinator must also ensure that standing water from the use of spray trucks is minimized throughout the event.
General Requirements
The temporary event coordinator is responsible for providing the following:
- a general map of the event showing the location of each temporary food service facility in relation to the set-up of the event; and
- a telephone number and point of contact if on-site problems or unforeseen circumstances occur.
The above requirements are for the purpose of maintaining compliance with COMAR 10.15.03. Failure to comply with the above requirements may result in immediate action to close the temporary food service facilities operating at the event.
For more information, contact:
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
Bureau of Environmental Health
Food Protection Services
3 Harry S. Truman Parkway
Annapolis, MD 21401 410-222-7192