Serving Safe Food at Special Events

Successful ventures in food service at special events can be achieved when the requirements outlined in DCMR Title 25-A, also known as the DC Food Code, are diligently followed. 

The Division of Food (DF) will have inspectors on-site during the special event to ensure that all the requirements as stated in the DC Food Code are met throughout the event. If, during the inspections, the sanitarian finds that the operation may threaten the health or safety of the patrons, the vendor or event organizer will be required to correct the violations. If there is an inability or unwillingness to correct violations observed, the vendor may be required to suspend or discontinue their operation. 

Special event guidelines for temporary food service operations are available for vendors participating in the event. These guidelines will help ensure that vendors at the event are aware of the requirements. For events where food is not offered for sale but is to be distributed at no cost to participants or spectators, vending operations must still meet the requirements of the DC Food Code and serve food safely. For events where food is not offered for sale but is to be distributed at no cost to participants or spectators, vending operations must still meet the requirements of the DC Food Code and serve food safely. Provide the DF with a list of the potential vendors using the forms below and email them to [email protected].