Each row is the verification state of one aspect for Iowa, taken from the data we hold. A check does not mean every local amendment or county fee was individually reviewed.
These come from the FDA Food Code — a model code that nearly every state adopts and amends, with enforcement that varies by jurisdiction. Treat them as commonly required, not universal: your menu, your state’s adopted edition, and your local authority (AHJ) may impose different or additional requirements.
Labels flag how firm each item is — Common baseline core Food-Code expectation · Frequently required usual on plan review · Varies locally set by local/plumbing code · Verify with AHJ confirm the specifics locally. The finer details (drainboard count, which sanitation listings are accepted, interceptor sizing) are plan-review and plumbing-code matters that vary by jurisdiction; the notes below are FoodServiceNerd planning guidance, not a code citation.
Varies locally Also required in most kitchens: a mop/service sink, mechanical exhaust hood (Type I over grease/smoke), adequate hot water, indirect waste/air gaps on food & warewashing equipment, and a grease interceptor where local plumbing code requires it — which apply, and their sizing, are set locally.
Licensing authority: Iowa Dept. of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing (DIAL). Regime: State agency licensing, county-based registration.
Licensed through DIAL, but you licence in the COUNTY WHERE THE UNIT IS STORED AND SERVICED - not where you vend. Out-of-state mobile units must obtain an Iowa licence to operate in Iowa, which implies one Iowa licence covers the state; confirm before publishing that as reciprocity. Submit at least 30 DAYS before operating and hold the licence before opening; renewals accepted up to 90 days early. Plan review required before licence approval, and again for converting an existing structure or any remodel affecting food preparation. Application needs a detailed floor plan, menu and equipment list, at least one certified food protection manager, and a passed inspection before opening.
Mobile/food-truck reciprocity: LIKELY YES - a single Iowa licence, issued via the county of storage; confirm
New builds and remodels almost always require a plan review and a pre-opening inspection. Submit your equipment layout early — the sink count, hood, and hot-water sizing are the usual sticking points.
Confirm the current mobile/retail food licence class, fees, forms and inspection scheduling with the state agency before applying.
Food-permit basics, inspection grading and your local health-department contact, county by county. Fees and plan review are set locally — find yours below.