How do I get a food booth permit for an event in Alameda County?
You need a Temporary Food Facility (TFF) permit from Alameda County Environmental Health for each event. Email the complete application to dehwebbilling@acgov.org at least 30 working days before the event; the county rejects incomplete applications. Food must be prepared on site or in a permitted commercial kitchen — not in your home kitchen, unless you hold a current cottage food permit.
Key facts
- Permit
- Temporary Food Facility — one per event
- Lead time
- At least 30 working days before the event
- Permit fee
- $143 to $333 per event, by food type and event length (fee schedule items 1903–1906)
- How to submit
- Email the complete application to dehwebbilling@acgov.org, then pay the permit fee
- Food source
- Prepared on site or in a permitted kitchen
- Refunds
- 50% of the permit fee may be refunded if the event is canceled or the application is rejected
Step by step
- Get the event name, dates and organizer contact.
- List your menu and where each item is prepared.
- Sketch your booth: handwashing, food storage and cooking areas.
- Email the complete county application to dehwebbilling@acgov.org at least 30 working days before the event, and pay the fee.
Questions
How far ahead do I need to apply for an event food permit in Alameda County?
At least 30 working days (weekends don't count) before the event.
Can I sell food I cooked at home at a farmers market?
Only registered cottage foods. Other food must be prepared on site or in a permitted commercial kitchen.
Official sources
- Temporary Food Facilities / Community Events — Alameda County Department of Environmental Health
- Community events and temporary food facilities FAQ (how and when to apply) — Alameda County Department of Environmental Health
- Environmental Health fee schedule (fees 2091, 2092, 2093) — Alameda County Department of Environmental Health
Last checked against official sources on . Regulatory OS explains official requirements and prepares applications; it is not a government agency and does not give legal advice. Agencies make all permit decisions.