Food Establishment Licenses

Overview

All food establishments in Arlington County must follow Arlington County Code Chapter 9.2, Food and Food Handling.

Arlington County uses the latest FDA Food Code to set food safety standards.

Apply for a Health License

You must get a Health License and pre-opening inspection when:

• You open a new food establishment, or
• An existing establishment changes owners.

You must renew the license each year.

How to Apply

• Complete the application (Online form or PDF(PDF, 514KB)).
• Pay the $40 fee by phone, mail, or in-person. Make checks payable to Treasurer, Arlington County.
• After you submit your application and complete the checklist(PDF, 55KB), schedule a pre-opening inspection.

Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM)

Arlington County and the Virginia Department of Health recognize CFPM programs accredited by the Conference for Food Protection (CFP).

To learn more:

• Visit the CFP website for details on accreditation.
• View the list of accredited programs on the American National Standards Institute website. 

Need financial help?

If you live in Arlington and are unemployed, the Arlington Employment Center can tell you if you qualify for CFPM tuition help.

2022 FDA Food Code

Arlington County follows the most current FDA Food Code. The 2022 edition is the latest version. These were the updates it introduced:

(PDF, 186KB)

• Added sesame as the 9th major food allergen (Chapter 1. Purpose and Definitions)
• Required written disclosure of major food allergens in unpackaged food (3-602.12)
• Required allergen labels on bulk, self-dispensed foods (3-602.11)
• Required approval to allow pet dogs in outdoor dining areas (6-501.115). Note: Arlington County already required food establishments to apply for dog dining.
• Revised the definition of intact meat and related cooking requirements (Chapter 1. Purpose and Definitions)

The 2022 FDA Food Code and the full summary of changes are available on the FDA website.

Variance for Outdoor Cooking

Restaurants in Arlington County may apply for a variance to allow outdoor cooking.

Public Notice of Inspection Reports

Food establishments must let customers know they can request the latest inspection report. You can do this by:

• Posting a sign or placard where customers can easily see it, or
• Using another method approved by the health department

The Virginia Department of Health offers sample signs in horizontal(PDF, 2MB) and vertical(PDF, 2MB) formats, with dark-background and print-friendly versions.

You are not required to use these samples as long as your sign meets the regulation (12VAC5‑421‑3750).

Starting a Business (BizLaunch)

Visit BizLaunch, Arlington’s small business support network. BizLaunch is your one-stop-shop for resources to start or grow a business in Arlington.