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1. How do I report a food establishment that is not following safe food-handling practices?

Call Environmental Health to initiate a complaint against the specific establishment. Be prepared to provide specific details about the name and address of the facility, the date and time the unsafe practice was observed, and the exact practice in question.

2. Who do I contact if I suspect that I have become ill after eating after a food establishment?

Contact Environmental Health to report any possible food borne illness. You will be asked to provide specifics such as:

• The date and time the meal was consumed
• The menu items consumed
• The name and address of the establishment
• Symptoms experienced
• The time symptoms began
• Whether medical treatment was sought

3. How do I obtain a permit to operate a food establishment in Abilene?

It will first be necessary to obtain a Certificate of Occupancy by contacting Building Inspection. Then, contact Environmental Health and be prepared to answer specific questions regarding location, menu, time frame for opening, whether it's a new or used facility, etc.

Environmental Health will conduct an inspection for a permit. Environmental Health will also conduct preliminary inspections on a facility before you purchase, lease, or remodel. This service is recommended and is free of charge.

Permits

Permits are also available for mobile food establishments, snow cone stands, push-carts, and temporary food events. Contact Environmental Health for specific details on each one of these.

4. Do I need a food permit to operate a bed and breakfast in Abilene?

The Texas Food Establishment rules identify three different types of bed and breakfast establishments, depending on the number of rooms available and the types of meals served. Contact Environmental Health to determine the need for a permit.

5. Do I need a permit to sell baked goods at a fund-raiser in Abilene?

No. The Texas Food Establishment Rules waive the need for a permit for non-profit, charitable fund-raising events. However, you must notify Environmental Health in advance of the event. They will issue a Bake Sale Letter to verify that the local health authority has been notified. Contact Environmental Health to request a Bake Sale Letter. Be prepared to provide specific information about the event.

6. What types of swimming pools and/or spas require a permit to operate in Abilene?

Operators of public and restricted access (motels, hotels, apartment complexes, swim clubs, etc.) pools and spas are required to obtain a permit annually. Owners of residential pools and spas are not required to obtain a permit. Contact Environmental Health for more information.

7. How do I obtain a permit to operate a public or restricted access pool or spa in Abilene?

Contact Environmental Health at 325-676-6291 to determine the need for a permit. An Environmental Health staff member will be assigned to inspect the pool/spa, and if it meets all code requirements, an application for permit will be issued. Environmental Health will issue a permit upon completion of the application and payment of the required fee (Code Compliance). Swimming pool/spa permits for public or restricted access pool or spa must be renewed annually.

8. What conditions will result in the mandatory closure of a public or restricted access pool or spa?

Pools and spas must meet minimum requirements for:

• Absence of Algae
• Chemical Balance (Disinfectant and pH)
• Clarity
• Presence of Safety Equipment
• Proper Fencing and Gating

If you believe a public or restricted-access pool is in violation, please contact Environmental Health.

9. Who do I contact about standing sewage?

Report the address to Environmental Health. An Environmental Health staff member will investigate the complaint.

10. How can I report mosquito development?

You may report mosquito development in standing water at either a private or public location online and selecting Mosquito Problem in a Public Area or by contacting Environmental Health. The City of Abilene encourages personal protection at all times during mosquito season. We concentrate on Public Health significant mosquitoes.