The Davis County Health Department has launched a new online Citizen Portal to streamline how residents and business owners manage permit applications and payments. The update allows for digital collection of food establishment applications, providing a more accessible way for users to manage record histories and settle fees directly through the Accela Citizen Access system.
New Digital Permit Access
According to the Davis County Health Department, the new portal allows users to access their accounts for free. Once a user completes the setup process, which the department describes as easy and taking only a few minutes, they can apply for or renew various permits online.
Public Inspection Transparency
In addition to permit management, the department's digital infrastructure now provides public access to restaurant inspection reports. The Accela Citizen Access portal allows members of the public to search these inspection records without the need to create a formal account.
Food Establishment Requirements
The Davis County Health Department maintains strict regulatory oversight for all food service operations, which it classifies as Food Establishments when they operate as traditional brick-and-mortar restaurants. To obtain a permit to operate, applicants must submit a full set of physical plans, a completed Food Establishment Permit Application, a full menu, and a Risk Assessment, along with a $750 plan review fee.
Construction and Plan Review
The department requires high levels of detail for these submitted plans. Plans must be scaled to 1/4 inch per foot and are required to include equipment specification sheets as well as schedules for plumbing, lighting, and finishes. If an establishment fails to submit and receive approval for these plans before starting construction, the department will charge a site review fee of $1,500 in place of the standard plan review fee.
Pre-Opening Inspections
Following the completion of construction, every establishment must schedule and pass a Pre-Opening Inspection. The department provides up to two on-site inspections paid for by application fees to ensure that the facility meets the Davis County Board of Health - Food Service Sanitation Regulation standards before a permit is officially issued.
Risk-Based Permit Fees
Permit costs for food establishments are determined by their specific risk category. The fee structure scales based on the level of risk identified: Risk 1 permits cost $225, while higher risk tiers increase significantly, with Risk 5 requiring a $1,200 permit. For businesses looking to remodel an existing facility, a full set of plans and a $750 plan review fee are required, though those renovating less than half of an existing establishment may qualify for a limited plan review fee of $300.
Ownership Transitions
The department also mandates that Food Establishment Permits are not transferable between owners. Any change in ownership requires a new permit application, including the submission of a menu and a $300 change of ownership fee. However, if a new owner takes over an establishment that has had no changes to its kitchen and has not been closed for any period of time, they may be granted a 30-day grace period to operate while their permit approval is pending.
