Food and Beverage
On this page:
* FDA Food Code
* Food Establishment Plan Review Application
* Frequently Asked Questions
We contribute to the health of our community by conducting food and beverage safety inspections in a variety of settings. We provide important education and training to business owners and follow the FDA Food Code for inspections.
Facilities we inspect in Fargo and West Fargo include restaurants, grocery stores, coffee shops, gas stations, school and childcare center kitchens, food trucks, carts and stick stands. In addition, we inspect food vendors that require licensure at local events. In Cass County, we license and inspect school and childcare center kitchens.
Food and Beverage Documents
FDA Food Code (2017)
Food Establishment Plan Review Application (2024)
Mobile Food Plan Review Application (2023)
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I start a new food business?
- For new construction, please contact the building inspections department of the city your business is located in (Fargo or West Fargo).
- I am taking over a current business. Do I need to apply for a license with FCPH?
- Yes, licenses through FCPH are non-transferable.
- Please contact us at FCPHFood@FargoND.gov or call 701.476.6729.
- I am starting a new food business that was previously a licensed food establishment, what steps should I take?
- Please contact us at FCPHFood@FargoND.gov or call 701.476.6729.
- I would like to sell my food products in a store or stores that are not owned by me. What type of license do I need?
- Please contact ND Food and Lodging for a processor's license to wholesale food products.
- I would like to sell my food products that contain meat in a store(s) that are not owned by me. What type of license do I need?
- Please contact the North Dakota Department of Agriculture for assistance.
- I would like to sell my food product at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds. Will I need a license from FCPH?
- Licensure from the state is required as the fairgrounds are not in our jurisdiction. Please contact ND Food and Lodging for assistance.
- Does my facility need to have a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) on-site?
- While having a CFPM is strongly encouraged, it is not a current requirement.
- How do I start the process of becoming a food vendor at a local event?
- Please contact us at FCPHFood@FargoND.gov or call 701.476.6729.