Texas Food Safety Compliance
Everything food businesses need to know about compliance in Texas. Covers Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER).
Adopted from
FDA Food Code 2017
HACCP required
Varies
Food handler card
Required
Inspection frequency
1-4 times per year (risk-based)
Permit cost
$258-$1,131
Compliance guides for Texas
Texas Health Department
Texas Department of State Health Services
1-888-963-7111
Contact your local health department for specific permit applications and inspection scheduling.
Common violations in Texas
- Improper cold holding temperatures
- No certified food manager on duty
- Inadequate handwashing facilities
- Improper food storage
- Missing food handler certificates
PassMyKitchen helps you avoid these violations by tracking your daily compliance tasks and maintaining inspection-ready records.
Top cities for food businesses in Texas
Frequently asked questions about Texas food safety
Texas requires all food handlers to obtain a Texas Food Handler Certificate by completing an accredited food safety training program. The certificate is valid for 2 years.
Yes. Texas requires food trucks to operate from a licensed commissary kitchen for food storage, preparation, and waste disposal. Each city may have additional commissary requirements.
Texas food establishment permits range from $258 to $1,131 depending on the type and size of operation. Local health departments may charge additional fees.
Texas uses a risk-based inspection system. Establishments are inspected 1 to 4 times per year depending on their risk category. High-risk violations trigger follow-up inspections.
Yes, but each city may require its own mobile food vendor permit. You need a state food establishment permit plus local permits for each city you operate in.
Ready to get compliant in Texas?
PassMyKitchen generates a custom HACCP plan based on Texas Food Establishment Rules (TFER). Set up in 3 minutes.