Virginia Food Safety Compliance
Everything food businesses need to know about compliance in Virginia. Covers Virginia Food Regulations (12 VAC 5-421).
Adopted from
FDA Food Code 2017
HACCP required
Yes
Food handler card
Not required
Inspection frequency
Risk-based
Permit cost
$40-$305
Compliance guides for Virginia
Food Trucks in Virginia
Permits, commissary requirements, and mobile food regulations for Virginia.
Cloud Kitchens in Virginia
Ghost kitchen licensing, multi-brand compliance, and Virginia food code requirements.
Caterers in Virginia
Catering permits, event food safety, and transport compliance in Virginia.
Virginia Health Department
1-804-864-7000
Contact your local health department for specific permit applications and inspection scheduling.
Common violations in Virginia
- Improper holding temperatures
- Inadequate handwashing
- No certified food protection manager
- Cross-contamination risks
- Improper food storage and labeling
PassMyKitchen helps you avoid these violations by tracking your daily compliance tasks and maintaining inspection-ready records.
Top cities for food businesses in Virginia
Frequently asked questions about Virginia food safety
Virginia food establishment permits range from $40 to $305 depending on the type of operation and the local health district. This is one of the more affordable states for food permits.
Virginia does not require food handler cards statewide. However, a Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) must be present during all hours of operation.
Virginia uses a risk-based inspection schedule. Most food establishments are inspected 1 to 3 times per year by the local health district.
Yes. Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax County each have their own mobile food vendor permit processes. You need a Virginia food establishment permit plus the local mobile vendor permit.
Ready to get compliant in Virginia?
PassMyKitchen generates a custom HACCP plan based on Virginia Food Regulations (12 VAC 5-421). Set up in 3 minutes.