A Farmers’ Market Vendor (FMV) permit is an annual permit for a farmer or producer who operates a food establishment at Farmers’ Markets. Farmers that sell only whole uncut produce, local honey, or packaged non-perishable foods do not need a permit. Farmers and food producers selling temperature-controlled foods, such as eggs or meats, or preparing food at the market, must obtain an annual FMV permit from EPH. Vendors that operate under a Farmers Market permit must meet the Farmers Market Requirements and follow the Temporary Food Establishment Operational Requirements.
To obtain a new FMV permit the FMV must follow these Plan Review steps:
- Submit to the EPH office:
- Plan Review Conference Appointment - EPH will call within five (5) business days to schedule the plan review appointment. This appointment is held over the phone. The application and operational statement will be reviewed to determine compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations. During the call, the plan reviewer will discuss the documents that need to be submitted to EPH before the pre-opening inspection can be scheduled. This step can be expedited*.
- Document Submittal - All documents (if required) must be submitted together and include the establishment number on all correspondence.
- Pre-Opening Inspection - A request must be made to EPH for a pre-opening inspection to occur at the next event in Harris County the vendor will operate at. The request must be made five (5) days prior to the desired inspection date. A re-inspection fee will be charged if the FMV does not pass the pre-opening inspection.
*EXPEDITE FEE: the indicated steps can be expedited with payment of the expedite fee. Contact Plan Review for eligibility.
FMV permits are renewed at an event during routine operation.