Each row is the verification state of one aspect for Michigan, 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: Local health departments; MDARD for certain categories. Regime: Local licensing + statewide unit class.
Two distinct classes, and the choice shapes the whole build. MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT: not fully equipped for full service, therefore MUST return to a licensed commissary at least once every 24 hours; the commissary licence number must appear on the application or it will not be processed. TRANSITORY FOOD UNIT (previously Special Transitory Food Unit / STFU): a permanently licensed operation that may work anywhere in Michigan without the 14-day temporary limit AND is NOT required to return to a commissary. Fee $135 whether issued by a local health department or MDARD; MDARD plan review $197. Requires submitted standard operating procedures and plan review. Notification of intent to operate must be sent to the local jurisdiction at least 4 business days ahead. Restaurants, catering trucks and event vendors sit with the local health department; groceries, bakeries and fair concessions sit with MDARD.
Mobile/food-truck reciprocity: PARTIAL - the Transitory Food Unit (formerly STFU) class is licensed to operate statewide
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.
Permit fees, plan review and local requirements are set by your county/city health department (the AHJ) — confirm the current specifics with them.
Food-permit basics, inspection grading and your local health-department contact, county by county. Fees and plan review are set locally — find yours below.