The Health Department is authorized under Chapter 64E-11, Florida Administrative Code (168bk PDF) to inspect and permit limited types of food service establishments. Four times a year we inspect food preparation at hospitals; nursing homes; adult living and childcare facilities with over 17 clients; schools; movie theaters; civic and fraternal organizations; and bars and lounges. Staff certification is required by Chapter 381, Florida statutes. and is regulated through Chapter 64E-18 Florida Administrative Code (42kb PDF). The Health Department investigates reported cases of food-related illnesses in conjunction with the Florida Department of Business and professional Regulation (DBPR) who inspect restaurants, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, who inspect groceries and convenience stores. Complaints regarding restaurants can be regtistered with the DBPR/Division of Hotels and Restaurants at (850) 487-1395. Concerns with grocery and convenience stores can be referred to the Dept. of Agriculture at (800) 435-7352. Inspections are based on monitoring and checking critical elements such as proper handling, temperatures, cross contamination and of sourse, cleanliness.

To register a complaint about restaurants or a food-borne illness, go to https://www.myfloridalicense.com/Default.asp .