Each row is the verification state of one aspect for Pennsylvania, 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: PA Dept. of Agriculture, Bureau of Food Safety (60 of 67 counties); 7 county health departments run their own. Regime: HYBRID - state covers most, named counties opt out.
PDA licenses Mobile Food Facilities except in Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Erie, Montgomery and Philadelphia, which operate independent health departments (confirmed on PA's own site). Your COMMISSARY location, not your vending location, determines the issuing authority. PDA reviews plans within 15 business days; submit ~60 days before opening; annual renewal with notice ~45 days prior. Person-in-charge must be present at all times. PA adopts the FDA Model Food Code under 7 Pa. Code Ch. 46. Philadelphia is heavily layered (L&I + Public Health + Revenue, vending zones, lottery Center City spots); Pittsburgh is light (single Mobile Vehicle Vendor License, four-hour move rule).
Mobile/food-truck reciprocity: NONE - PDA guide states there is no reciprocity between local health departments
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.
The issuing authority depends on your commissary location: PDA for 60 counties, or one of 7 county health departments — confirm which applies 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.