Starting a Food Service Establishment in Ramsey County
Contact Saint Paul – Ramsey County Public Health, Environmental Health for information on food code requirements, local ordinances and permits. Ramsey County Food Protection Ordinance (pdf) | Minnesota Food Code | Starting a Food Business in Minnesota (pdf) | Recycling Requirements (pdf) | Smoke-free Restaurant Ordinance (pdf) | FAQ about Licensed Establishement Inspections | Food Service Construction Guide (pdf)
This office does not serve the cities of Saint Paul ( 651.266.9090) or Maplewood (651.770.4500)
Who Needs a License
Restaurant, Bars and Supper Clubs | Assisted Living Facilities | Bed and Breakfast Operations | Catering Kitchens and Commissaries | Convenience Stores and Delicatessens | Public and Private School Kitchens | Snack Bars and Cafeterias | Other Food Service Operations
Plan Review
A Plan Review is required for all new food establishments and when remodeling any existing food establishments. A food license cannot be issued to a new food establishment until the plan review process has been completed. An equipment review is also required when an existing food establishment is interested in adding a new piece of equipment | Plan Review Process
Licenses and Fees
A food license is issued for the calendar year (January 1 – December 31). This license is not transferable to another person or location. All license applications must be completed and the fee paid prior to the final inspection. A final inspection is required before the license is issued.
Other Requirements
- Taxpayer ID & Tax Permits - Contact the MN Department of Revenue for a Taxpayer ID Number. The Taxpayer ID Number is different from the Employer ID Number.
- Employer ID - Contact the IRS for information on a Federal Employer ID Number. The Federal Employer ID Number is different from the Taxpayer ID Number.
- Contact your city or township regarding local liquor and tobacco licenses.
Food Manager Certification Courses
Each facility serving potentially hazardous foods must employ a certified food manager. Courses are offered throughout the year. Participants successfully completing the full-day course will receive a certificate from the National Restaurant Association Education Foundation | Food Manager Certification Courses (pdf) | 651.266.1199
Food Safety
Information regarding food codes, foodborne illness and emergency handbook for food service managers | Food Safety
More Information
Minnesota Department of Agriculture | 651.201.6027
Minnesota Department of Health | 651.201.5000
Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry | 651.284.5067
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