Food Inspections

Regular Food Establishments
Food establishments in Iowa, including restaurants, grocery stores, and convenience stores, are required by law to be inspected twice a year or on a risk-based inspection frequency.     The City of Ottumwa Health Department is responsible for performing food and food related inspections in the City of Ottumwa and throughout Wapello County.  

In order to operate a food establishment, you must first contact The City of Ottumwa Health Department to apply for the appropriate license.   If you are opening a new restaurant, you must also submit building plans of your establishment for review by an inspector (referred to as pre-inspection plan review)

Temporay Food Stands
Individuals or groups that set up temporary food service facilities are required by law to obtain a Temporary Food Service Establishment License and a Peddler/Transient Merchant License.   Food storage, sanitation, cooking to proper temperatures and holding food at proper temperatures are very important steps to follow to guard against food borne illnesses.

Temporary Food Stand License Application.
Transient Merchant Licence Information and Application.

 Contact us at (641) 683-0610 for an inspection.

Contact Bob Coffman at 641-683-0651 or coffmanb@ci.ottumwa.ia.us with food and hotel/motel inspection questions.