Department of
Health & Human Services

Long Beach, CA – The Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services’ Environmental Health Bureau is hosting a food safety workshop inviting business owners, entrepreneurs and all interested in operating a food business at community events or certified farmers’ markets. The workshop will take place from 9 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, Nov. 2, 2023, at Long Beach Energy Resources (2400 E. Spring St.).

“Small businesses are the heart of our city, and this workshop will help more people on their journey to launch a food-based business,” said Mayor Rex Richardson. “It’s also an opportunity for established restaurateurs to expand their footprint by setting up temporary food stands at community events.”

The workshop will provide education detailing the responsibilities and permit requirements for community event organizers and temporary food facility operators. Information about temporary food facility categories and potential exemptions for nonprofits and charitable organizations will also be discussed. Food vendors will learn about the application evaluation, inspection and Health Permit approval process and have their questions answered by the food safety experts at the Health Department, including inspectors who can answer questions in Spanish, Tagalog and Khmer.

“Getting a food permit is a crucial step in operating a food-based business in Long Beach,” said City Health Officer Dr. Anissa Davis, “Not only because it’s the law, but also to protect the public from foodborne illness.”

Sidewalk food vendors are strongly encouraged to attend so they may learn how to obtain a temporary health permit and operate legally at community events. These requirements are different from those needed to obtain an annual sidewalk food vendor health permit. A workshop focused on annual sidewalk food vendor health permits is expected to take place following the establishment of a local sidewalk vending ordinance.

Registration, while not required, is appreciated. People may register online.

About the City of Long Beach 
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov/. Watch us on LBTV. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. More information about the Health Department’s Environmental Health Bureau is available at longbeach.gov/health.