The Private and Public School Inspection Program is designed to protect the health and safety of the public through education in good sanitation and safety practices in a school setting. A partnering agency for this program is the Department of Education.
Food hygiene inspections of school kitchens are conducted at least twice a year with the biannual facility inspections in Escambia County schools. These inspections implement section 381.0072, Florida Statutes, and Rules 6A-2.0010 and 6A-2.0040, Florida Administrative Code.
Inspections ensure that:
- Food is stored, handled, and served in a sanitary manner to prevent cross contamination and the spread of foodborne illness.
- Utensils and serving equipment are properly cleaned and sanitized.
- Work areas and equipment are kept clean, safe, and sanitized.
- Sanitary facilities are operational, clean, and equipped with hand-washing facilities.
- The school building is clean, sanitary, and safe for students, faculty, and staff.
Food Safety Permitting:
The school will receive a permit to serve food after:
- Sanitation Certificate Application is submitted
- Permit fees are paid either in person, by mail, or online.
- Facility plans are submitted and approved (if opening a business)
- Construction site evaluation is conducted and approved (if opening a business)
- Proof of required training through the Florida Department of Health is presented (if applicable)
- Final inspection is conducted and given a rating of “Satisfactory”
Location Information
Downtown Service Center
1300 West Gregory Street
The Private and Public Schools Inspection office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.