Report an Unpermitted Food Vending Operation
Call (559) 600-3357
Food safety is a huge priority in Fresno County! If you observe an unpermitted food vending operation, we ask that you report the incident to our office. If possible, please provide the date, time, and location where the unpermitted operation was observed, as well as the business name and type of food they were serving, if possible. Other identifying characteristics such as make, model, and license plate number of vehicles and any photos of the operation are also helpful when filing a report. However, be sure only to collect information if or when it can be done safely.
Enforcement
Registered Environmental Health Specialists (REHS) conduct routine enforcement for unpermitted food vendors.
What REHS Staff Do
- Check whether the vendor has a valid health permit.
- Inspect food temperatures, storage, preparation, handwashing, and cleanliness.
- Educate the vendor about food-safety risks, permit requirements, and how to become permitted.
- Document the location, food, equipment, and violations.
- Issue a notice or direct the vendor to stop operating.
- Condemn unsafe food, impound equipment, or issue citations when authorized.
- Work with law enforcement or code enforcement for safety and support.
Main goal: Protect the public and help vendors understand how to operate safely and obtain a permit.
Dangers of Unpermitted Food Vendors
Unpermitted food vendors:
- Operate without health inspections
- Lack proper sanitation facilities
- Use unsafe water sources
- Store food at unsafe temperatures
- Have untrained food handlers
These conditions greatly increase the risk of food contamination and disease outbreaks.
Why Permits and Inspections Matter
Permitted food vendors must:
- Pass regular health inspections
- Follow food safety standards
- Maintain clean equipment and workspaces
- Ensure staff are trained in food hygiene
Permits help ensure that the food you eat is safe, clean, and properly prepared.