Food served at events can be challenging from a food safety perspective. Ensuring that people have enough water, the proper equipment, and adequate protective measures is important for public health. That is why review and permitting is required for food vendors in Missoula County.

Pre-Permitting Review

An application must be submitted to our department prior to the start of the event. The more you plan in advance, the less you have to pay for pre-permitting review. Review fees range from $35 for applications submitted at least five business days in advance of the event up to $105 for the day of the event.

Temporary Food Service Review

Food service at temporary events

Permitting Fees 

Once an application is approved, a local permit can be issued. 

Single Day Event	Two or fewer employees	$65
Single Day Event	Three or more employees	$95
Multiple Day Event - up to 21 consecutive days at a fixed location	Two or fewer employees	$75
Multiple Day Event - up to 21 consecutive days at a fixed location	Three or more employees	$105
Recurring Event - up to 45 days serving a fixed menu	Two or fewer employees	$85
Recurring Event - up to 45 days serving a fixed menu	Three or more employees	$115

Temporary Food Service FAQs

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Farmers' Markets

Food can be sold and served at Farmers' Markets. Whether or not a permit is required to do so depends on the food you want to serve. Some items are exempt as per state law, while others may be served if a temporary food service permit is obtained.

Farmers' Market Exemptions (selling these foods elsewhere may require licensing):

• Hot coffee or tea served without fresh milk or cream.
• Baked goods that do not require refrigeration for safety (e.g. cookies, muffins).
• Jams, jellies, and fruit preserves (does not include pepper jellies without further review).
• Farm eggs (eggs must be clean, labeled, and kept cold).
• Whole, unprocessed farm products such as produce.
• Raw honey.

This does not include canned items, pickled foods, or items cooked or made onsite. 

Products must be labeled according to law with the following information:

• Name of the food.
• Ingredients in descending order by weight.
• Disclosure of allergens.
• Net quantity.
• Producer's name and physical address.
• Statement: "Made in a home kitchen that is not subject to retail food establishment regulations or inspections."