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Food Service Operators

Before You Apply for or Renew a Permit – Pay Your Fines

All outstanding fines imposed for Health Code Violations must be paid before you can apply for or renew a permit or registration issued by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene.

Fines may be paid in the following ways:


Whether you work in a restaurant, soup kitchen or other food service establishment, the Health Department has important information about operating a clean, safe, healthy and legal business. Use the links provided on the left to find the guidance and information you need.

Customer Service Office

The Customer Service Office for food establishments, temporary food service establishments and mobile food vendors is open to walk-ins and by appointment. Masks are required to be worn by all visitors.

Hours: Monday to Thursday, 9 a.m. 4 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: 125 Worth Street, Room 1020, Manhattan

To schedule an appointment:

  • Email infobfscs@health.nyc.gov. In the subject line, put "Customer Service Appointment".
  • Call 212-676-1650 or 212-676-1651.

New or renewal permitting services are not offered at this location. To find out how to apply for or renew a permit, visit Food Establishment Permits.

Services Offered:

  • Information about compliance with health code regulations
    • Food safety
    • Letter grading
    • Smoke free air act
    • Menu posting requirements (calorie labeling, sodium warning)
    • Consultative inspections
  • Guidance regarding applying for or renewing a permit or license
  • Reopening guidance and recommendations
  • Plan review
  • Replace a letter grade card
  • Provide required signs, posters and other educational materials
  • Review and approval of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) plans
  • Provide inspection history reports
  • Meet with Ombudsperson (by appointment only)

Inspection History Report for Your Restaurant

To ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and avoid fines, operators may request a 3-year inspection history report for their food service establishment.

Business Owner's Bill of Rights

Additional Resources

More Information