Transient or Temporary Food Events

Transient/Temporary Food Permitting and Inspecting

The Environmental Health Division issues Transient or Temporary Food Event permits to allow food service during limited-time events or celebrations, such as fairs, carnivals, circuses, or sporting events. These permits are issued to individuals or groups that operate a temporary food establishment.

Transient food establishment means a food establishment that operates at a fixed location for a period of no more than 14 consecutive days in conjunction with a single event.

Temporary Food Event image
Transient/Temporary Food Permit Process

If you are holding an event:

  • Contact the Environmental Health Division at 262-636-9203 to determine if your operation requires a permit.
  • If so, complete the Transient Food Service Permit Application.
  • Submit the completed application to the City of Racine Department of Customer Service along with the application fee.
    • Note: Non-Profit organizations who provide proof of the organization’s 501(c ) (3) status when applying may be exempt from permit fees.
  •  Please review appropriate sections of Administrative Code and Racine Municipal code.
  • All food handlers must complete the Temporary Event Food Service Class offered by the Environmental Health Division detailing food safety at a temporary event. This class is free of charge and can be completed online. In-person courses can be provided upon request.
    • Note: The permit year runs from July 1 through June 30, and the permit fee must be paid annually before July 1 to avoid penalties.
Food Safety Class

The Environmental Health Division offers a Temporary Event Food Safety Class for those preparing, handling, or serving food at a temporary event that requires a permit (see above). This class can be completed online, at your own pace, by reviewing the six links below (each opens a PDF in a new window or tab) and completing the online quiz. Those who receive a quiz score of 80% or above will receive a Certificate of Completion via email. If you receive a score less than 80%, you will be contacted by the Public Health Department to review the missed question(s) prior to receiving a Certificate of Completion. You are allowed to retake the exam after re-reviewing the course material.

If special accommodations are necessary, an in-person class at the Environmental Health Division can be requested. In-person classes are offered at Racine City Hall, 730 Washington Avenue by appointment only. Interested individuals can call 262-636-9203 or email  PublicHealth@cityofracine.org for availability, registration requests, and questions.

If you have questions or would like more information
Environmental Health Division
Newsletter animation

Sign up for our newsletter!

Join our email list to keep up to date with all the current news and events