Charitable Feeding Operations

limited service charitable feeding operation

 

On January 1, 2019, Assembly Bill 2178 California Retail Food Code (CRFC): Limited Service Charitable Feeding Operation (LSCFO) goes into effect. The bill amended state law, the California Retail Food Code (CRFC), to provide regulatory flexibility for LSCFOs to serve wholesome food to those who are food insecure with a primary focus on food safety. It further provides for varying levels of food service requirements, including a registration option for LSCFOs conducting minimal food service activities.  Below is a summary of food service options for LSCFOs and their associated requirements:

 Food Service Type

 Registration
or  Permit

 Requirements

 100% Pre-packaged,
 non-perishable food 
 storage/distribution.

Exempt.

 Follow safe food practices for the
 storage and distribution of
 pre-packaged food items.

 100 % Pre-packaged
 perishable food
 storage/distribution, distributed
 under the purview of a
 permitted Food Bank.

Exempt.

 These operations will fall under the
 permit of the associated Food Bank. 
 Follow Food Bank best management
 practices.

 100% Pre-packaged perishable
 food storage/distribution - not
 associated with a permitted
 Food Bank.

Registration
with DEHQ.


Submit proof of non-profit status
Ex. 501c3 with application.

 Completion of a Limited Service
 Charitable Feeding Operation
 Registration Application. Compliance
 with Best Management Practices
 approved by DEHQ. Annual payment of
 registration fees.
 

 Heating (and reheating for hot
 holding), portioning, or
 assembly of small volume
 commercially prepared foods,
 whole, uncut produce.

Registration
with DEHQ.

Submit proof of non-profit status 
Ex. 501c3 with application.

 Completion of a Limited Service
 Charitable Feeding Operation
 Registration Application. Compliance
 with Best Management Practices
 approved by DEHQ. Annual payment of
 registration fees.

 Food preparation beyond what
 is listed above.

Must obtain approval from DEHQ Plan Check. 

Then, apply for a DEHQ Health Permit.

 Meet CRFC requirements for a retail
 food facility. Complete the plan check
 process and obtain an annual health
 permit.

 

The County of San Diego supports the local Live Well San Diego Food System Initiative which works towards a robust and resilient local food system that builds healthy communities, supports the economy and enhances the environment.  On December 12, 2018 the County Board of Supervisors approved waiving the fees associated with registering or obtaining a health permit for charitable feeding organizations.  This means that the Department of Environmental Health and Quality (DEHQ) will not be charging a fee for any charitable feeding organizations that need to register or obtain a health permit.

As the holidays near, if you are looking to volunteer or if you or someone you know is in need of food, please visit the San Diego Food Bank webpage for a schedule of food distributions taking place this month. Lists are organized according to program.
 

Charitable Feeding Operation Publications

 

Learn How to Reduce Organic Waste and Donate *NEW* 
 Holiday Charitable Feeding Guidance During a Shigella Outbreak *NEW* 
 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Registration Form (Fillable)
Registration Form (Print Version)
Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Requirements and Flow Chart

 

If you would like to know more about Charitable Feedings or have questions, please contact us at (858) 505-6803 or at DEHFoodSafety@sdcounty.ca.gov.