Environmental Public Health Division

Please take time to review the enclosed information regarding the requirements and procedures for opening new or remodeled food establishments under the jurisdiction of Harris County Public Health & Environmental Health Services. If you have any questions, please call us at (713) 439-6370 and a preopening inspector will assist you or will return your call.

When you are ready to submit your plans, you may have them delivered to our office, Room 529, 2223 West Loop South, or you may submit the plans in person and have them checked while you wait on Mondays or Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

After your plans have been approved, construction is finished, and you have provided us with the required documents (as specified in this packet), you may request a preopening inspection. Before food operations may begin, a preopening inspection must be conducted and written approval to begin food operations must be given by the pre-opening inspector. Please give us 3-5 days advance notice when requesting a preopening inspection. We understand the urgency to open a business and we will work with you as much as possible, but we have a tight schedule and may not be able to meet last minute requests.

Payment of a $30 fee is required before plans will be reviewed. The fee is payable by cash (correct change please), check, or money order.

Again, please call us if you have any questions. All preopening procedures must be followed before the establishment opens for business or charges may be filed against the establishment operator.

We look forward to working with you in your efforts to open a safe and successful food operation.

Sincerely,
Planchecking/Preopening Staff
Environmental Public Health.