Health

Opening a New Business

If you’re planning to open a new business that needs a license from the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment, here’s how to get started.

Your plans will be reviewed to make sure your business meets current food safety rules and is built correctly. This helps avoid expensive changes during construction.

Environmental Health Fees

Restaurants and Mobile Units

The Larimer County Department of Health and Environment issues licenses for restaurants, food trucks, and temporary food vendors.

If you want to build or remodel a food business, you need to submit a plan review application. This includes a set of detailed plans, specifications, and the application fee. The health department must review and approve your plans before you start any construction.

To serve food and/or beverages at a special events or farmer’s markets review the Vendor Guidelines for Temporary Events tab on our Food Safety Program page.

All applications may be returned to our offices or Submitted Online

Important: Retail food licenses are tied to the current owner and location, so they cannot be transferred.

If you’re buying or have bought an existing food business and don’t plan to change the building, menu, or equipment, you might not need a full plan review. Contact our office to schedule a change of ownership inspection.

Swimming Pools

New or extensively remodeled swimming facilities must be reviewed prior to construction. This applies to the following types of pools:

  •  Public - recreation center, public park
  •  Semi-public - hotel or motel, mobile home park, child care center, health club or spa - open to members and guests only.

Complete a Larimer County Swimming Pool Plan Review Application 

The Application may be returned to our offices or Submitted Online

Schools and Childcare Facilities

Childcare facilities are licensed by the Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS). If you’re opening a new facility or making major renovations, your plans must be reviewed and approved by the Larimer County Department of Health and Environment before CDHS can approve the license. 

The Application may be returned to our offices or Submitted Online

NOTE: Schools are required to submit food service plans and specifications prior to starting construction, remodel or operation.