Food Service Sanitation and Licensing
Our Food Service Sanitation & Licensing Program is dedicated to protecting public health by helping ensure that food served throughout our communities is safe to eat. Through routine inspections, licensing, education, and regulatory oversight, our Environmental Health team works with both temporary and permanent food service establishments to maintain sanitary conditions and follow safe food handling practices in accordance with state regulations.
Michigan law requires all eligible food service establishments to obtain and maintain a valid license to operate. In addition to inspections and licensing, our staff investigates reports of suspected foodborne and waterborne illnesses to identify potential sources, reduce the risk of further illness, and protect the health of the public. If you have concerns about the sanitation, cleanliness, or food handling practices of a food establishment, we encourage you to contact your local BHSJ Community Health Agency office to report your concern.
Branch County: 517-279-9561 ext. 106
Hillsdale County: 517-437-7395 ext. 331
St. Joseph County: 269-273-2161 ext. 233
Resources
- 2026 Eat Safe Fish Southwest MI Guide(opens in new tab)
- Conscious Choking Poster(opens in new tab)
- Consumer Food Safety(opens in new tab)
- Emergency Action Plans for Retail Food Establishments(opens in new tab)
- Food Allergy Poster(opens in new tab)
- Food Safety & Cleaning Videos(opens in new tab)
- Food Recalls(opens in new tab)
- Handwashing Station for Temporary Food Booth(opens in new tab)
- Hemp in Food & Dairy Products(opens in new tab)
- Make and Sell Cottage Food(opens in new tab)
- Michigan (MDARD) Food Establishment Licensing(opens in new tab)
Additional Forms
Food Service Licensing Center
Everything you need to apply for, renew, or manage a food service license. Browse applications, permits, and supporting documents for temporary and permanent food service establishments, all in one convenient location.