Food Safety
The Environmental Health Program is responsible for inspection, education, investigation and enforcement, of licensed food establishments in Black Hawk County as well as Benton, Buchanan, Bremer, Fayette and Grundy counties. Black Hawk County Public Health contracts with the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA) to enforce the 2017 Food Code, its Supplements and the Iowa Administrative Code in our service area.
Click on the appropriate link below to find the guidelines and requirements needed for each type of food license/establishment, or to sign up for the Food Protection Manager Certification.
How to Open a New Establishment
Food Protection Manager Certification
Requirements and Guidelines for:
Food Establishments
In Home Bakeries
Farmers Markets
Mobile Food Units and Pushcarts
Temporary Food Stands
Learn more about preventing food borne illness by going to the CDC website.
Downloads & Resources
FDA's 2017 Food Code
FDA's 2017 Food Code
We've adopted the FDA's Food Code guidelines for our county. Download the full guidelines here.
Food Establishment License Application
Food Establishment License Application
This application for restaurants, grocery stores, or mobile food units. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance of the anticipated opening date.
Temporary Food Service and License Guide
Temporary Food Service and License Guide
Comprehensive guidance from the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals on obtaining a temporary food establishment license.