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In the state of Florida, the partnership between mobile food establishments or self-vending ice units and their supporting commissaries is formalized through a document known as the Commissary Letter of Agreement. This essential form, overseen by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety, plays a pivotal role in the regulatory landscape of Florida's mobile food industry. The letter outlines various critical elements, including but not limited to, the identification details of the mobile unit or ice vending operation such as owner information, permit numbers, and the primary commissary's credentials like name, address, and license number. Moreover, the agreement details the specific services the commissary will provide, which could range from food and equipment storage to wastewater disposal and more, thereby ensuring that both parties have a clear understanding of their responsibilities. This agreement not only facilitates the smooth operation of mobile food services by guaranteeing that they have access to necessary facilities but also aids the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) inspectors in regulating the industry efficiently. The form, which must be completed and submitted as part of the application for a mobile food establishment permit or a self-vending permit application that requires a commissary, underscores the state's commitment to food safety and public health. As such, it's an indispensable document for mobile food operators in Florida.

Document Preview Example

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Division of Food Safety

COMMISSARY LETTER OF AGREEMENT

Bureau of Food and Meat Inspection 3125 Conner Boulevard C-26 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1620 (850) 245-5520

ADAM H. PUTNAM

COMMISSIONER

This form is to be filled out and given to the FDACS inspector in the field and submitted as part of a mobile food establishment permit application or with a package ice plant self-vending permit application that requires a commissary.

SECTION 1– MOBILE FOOD ESTABLISHMENT (MFE) OR SELF VENDING ICE UNIT (SVIU) INFORMATION

 

 

Owner Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Phone Number (include area code)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Owner Mailing Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Permit Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

Zip Code (+4 optional)

 

County

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I hereby certify the provided information is correct and understand permit approval is contingent upon verification of an approved commissary.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print Name (Owner of MFE or SVIU)

 

 

 

 

Signature (Owner of MFE or SVIU)

 

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION 2 – PRIMARY COMMISSARY INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Primary Commissary Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commissary Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City

 

 

 

 

 

Zip Code (+4 optional)

 

County

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Primary Phone Number (include area code)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commissary License/Permit Number

 

 

Primary E-Mail Address

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Licensed By

 

Department of Agriculture & Consumer

 

Department of Business and

 

Department of Health

 

None

 

 

(check one)

 

Services

 

 

 

Professional Regulation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Water Supply of Primary

 

Municipal/Utility

 

Supplier Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commissary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On-site Well

 

 

Permit Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Municipal/Utility

 

Supplier Name

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wastewater Disposal of

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Septic Tank System

 

Permit Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Primary Commissary

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Package Plant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I intend to provide the following activities at this commissary:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dish or equipment washing

 

Yes

No

 

 

Storing of food and dry goods (room temperature)

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dumping wastewater

 

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

Cold Storage of food (including ice and drinks)

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Receiving potable water

 

Yes

No

 

 

Cooking and/or reheating food

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Washing the outside of the vehicle

 

Yes

No

 

 

Three compartment sink

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Restroom facilities

 

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

Other (Describe below)

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Describe other activities here:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signing this document will allow FDACS Food Inspectors entry to my business during normal hours of operation for evaluation of facilities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print Name (of Person in Charge of Commissary)

 

 

Signature (of Person in Charge of Commissary)

 

Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are additional commissaries used?

Yes

No

If yes use as many pages as needed.

 

 

 

 

 

FDACS-14223 Rev. 10/15

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Page 1 of 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Document Overview

Fact Description
Form Title Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement
Authority Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety
Contact Information 3125 Conner Boulevard C-26, Tallahassee, FL 32399-1620, Phone: (850) 245-5520
Commissioner ADAM H. PUTNAM
Purpose Part of a mobile food establishment permit application or package ice plant self-vending permit application requiring a commissary
Sections in the Form Mobile Food Establishment or Self Vending Ice Unit Information; Primary Commissary Information
Required Approvals Permit approval is contingent upon verification of an approved commissary
Licensing Bodies Mentioned Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Department of Health
Commissary Activities Included Dish/equipment washing, food storage, wastewater dumping, cold storage, potable water receiving, food cooking/reheating, vehicle washing, and restroom facilities
Consent for Inspection Signing allows FDACS Food Inspectors to enter the business during normal hours for evaluation
Use of Additional Commissaries Option to use additional commissaries, requiring extra documentation

Instructions on How to Fill Out Florida Commissary Letter Of Agreement

Filling out the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form is an essential step for mobile food establishment owners or those operating a self vending ice unit who are looking to comply with state regulations. This document, once completed, serves as part of the documentation required to obtain or renew a permit. It facilitates the official agreement between the mobile unit and its primary commissary, ensuring all parties adhere to the standards set by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety. Here are the straightforward steps to fill out the form:

  1. Fill in Section 1 – Start by providing all requested information about your mobile food establishment (MFE) or self vending ice unit (SVIU). This includes the owner's name, phone number, mailing address, permit number, city, zip code, and county. Ensure the data is accurate as it forms the basis for permit verification.
  2. Accuracy Certification – The owner of the MFE or SVIU should print their name, sign, and date the form, confirming that all provided information is correct and understanding that permit approval hinges on the verification of an approved commissary.
  3. Furnish Primary Commissary Information – In Section 2, share the name and address of your primary commissary, including the city, zip code, and county. Also, include the primary phone number and email address for contact purposes.
  4. Commissary Licensing Details – Identify the licensing body of the primary commissary by checking the appropriate box: Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services, Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Department of Health, or None.
  5. Water Supply and Wastewater Disposal Information – Indicate the water supply and wastewater disposal methods of the primary commissary along with applicable permit numbers.
  6. Specify Commissary Activities – Check 'Yes' or 'No' for each listed activity that you intend to perform at the commissary. If there are other activities not listed, describe them in the space provided.
  7. Access Permission – By signing the form, the person in charge of the commissary is granting permission for FDACS Food Inspectors to enter the business during normal hours for evaluation purposes. They should print their name, sign, and date the form.
  8. Additional Commissaries – If more than one commissary will be used, check 'Yes' and attach additional sheets with information pertaining to each additional commissary as necessary.

Once the form has been filled out comprehensively, it should be handed over to the FDACS inspector on-site or submitted as part of your application package. This agreement is key to ensuring your mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit operates within Florida's health and safety regulations, and it is a critical step in securing your operational permit.

Listed Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form?

The Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form is a required document for mobile food establishments and self-vending ice unit operators in Florida who are applying for a permit. The form serves as an agreement between the mobile food operation and their primary commissary, detailing the services the commissary will provide to the mobile food establishment. It ensures that the mobile food establishment has a sanitary and approved base of operation for critical needs such as dishwashing, food storage, and wastewater disposal. This agreement is crucial for maintaining food safety standards and is a part of the permit application process overseen by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Food Safety.

Who needs to fill out and submit this form?

Both the owner of the mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit and the person in charge of the primary commissary must fill out and sign the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form. Initially, the mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit owner provides their specific information and certifies the accuracy of this information. Then, the manager or person in charge of the commissary outlines the services the commissary will offer to the establishment and signs the form to confirm this agreement. It should then be submitted to a local FDACS inspector as part of the mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit's permit application package.

What activities can be conducted at the commissary according to the form?

The form outlines a variety of activities that a commissary can provide for a mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit. These include dish or equipment washing, cold storage of food, cooking and/or reheating food, dumping of wastewater, obtaining potable water, washing the outside of the vehicle, and access to restroom facilities, among others. It also includes categories for storage at room temperature and the use of a three-compartment sink. The commissary manager can indicate which of these services are available at their facility by checking yes or no next to each activity and describing any other services offered.

What happens if a mobile food establishment uses more than one commissary?

If a mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit uses more than one commissary, they must indicate this by checking 'yes' to the question about additional commissaries on the form. They should then attach additional pages, each with the required information and agreement terms, for every additional commissary being used. This ensures that the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has comprehensive information on all commissary locations supporting the mobile food operation, allowing for proper oversight and inspection to guarantee food safety regulations are met.

Are there any legal implications for signing this document?

By signing the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form, both the mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit owner and the commissary manager are entering into a legal agreement. The mobile food establishment owner is certifying the correctness of their provided information and acknowledging that permit approval depends on verification of an approved commissary. Likewise, the commissary manager agrees to provide the listed services and grants FDACS Food Inspectors access to the business for evaluations during normal operational hours. Such agreements are essential for ensuring compliance with food safety standards and regulations, and failure to adhere to the commitments outlined in the form can have legal and regulatory repercussions.

Common mistakes

When filling out the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form, individuals often make errors that can delay or impact the processing of their application. Understanding these common mistakes can help ensure that the process goes more smoothly.

  1. Not providing complete owner information: Failing to fill out all the required fields in the owner information section, including the phone number with area code and the complete mailing address, can cause delays.
  2. Forgetting to certify: The form requires the owner to certify that the information provided is correct. Missing this step means the application cannot move forward.
  3. Omitting the signature and date: The owner's signature and the date are crucial. They officially endorse the accuracy of the information and agree to the terms. Without this, the form is incomplete.
  4. Inaccurate commissary information: Providing incorrect details about the primary commissary, such as its name, address, or license number, can lead to unnecessary complications.
  5. Skipping activities details: Not specifying the activities that will be carried out at the commissary, or incorrectly marking them, may lead to issues with permit approval.
  6. Failing to provide accessibility agreement: By signing the form, the owner agrees to allow FDACS Food Inspectors entry to the business. Neglecting this part can be a critical mistake.
  7. Not listing additional commissaries: If more than one commissary is used, it’s essential to mention this and provide the required details on additional pages. Omitting this information can pose problems.

Avoiding these mistakes not only helps in the smoother processing of the application but also ensures compliance with the requirements set forth by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety.

Documents used along the form

When applying for a mobile food establishment permit or a self-vending ice unit permit in Florida, it's not just the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement that needs attention. Several other forms and documents play a crucial role in ensuring compliance and securing approval. Understanding each document's purpose will streamline the application process, ensuring all necessary paperwork is accurately completed and submitted.

  • Business License Application: This form is essential for establishing a legal business entity in the state of Florida. It registers the business with the Florida Department of State.
  • Food Service Establishment License Application: Required for businesses intending to sell food directly to consumers. It is a critical document for mobile food vendors, managed by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation.
  • Mobile Food Vendor Permit Application: Specifically designed for food trucks and other mobile food units, this permit is necessary for operating within certain jurisdictions, cities, or counties.
  • Zoning and Land Use Permit: Before setting up a mobile food establishment, this permit ensures the location complies with local zoning and land-use regulations.
  • Health Department Inspection Certificate: A critical document showing that the mobile food establishment or commissary has passed health inspections, adhering to sanitation and safety standards.
  • Fire Safety Inspection Certificate: This certificate, issued by the local fire department, validates compliance with fire safety regulations, which is paramount for vehicles equipped to cook food.
  • Vehicle Registration and Insurance: Essential for mobile food establishments, this documents the legal registration and insurance coverage of the vehicle used for food service.
  • Waste Disposal Agreement: A contract or agreement detailing how the establishment will responsibly dispose of grease and other waste, ensuring environmental compliance.
  • Employee Health and Hygiene Policy: A document that outlines the health and hygiene standards employees must follow, crucial for maintaining food safety standards.
  • Commissary Letter of Agreement (Additional Pages): If using multiple commissaries, additional pages of the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement are necessary to document each one.

Collecting and completing these documents meticulously is fundamental to the approval process of mobile food establishments or self-vending ice units in Florida. A thorough and organized approach can significantly ease the regulatory pathway, making it smoother for business owners to start and run their operations legally and successfully.

Similar forms

The Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form, as outlined by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety, holds similarities with several other regulatory documents in both form and function. These documents collectively ensure that businesses operating within the food service and retail sectors comply with health, safety, and operational standards as imposed by various governmental agencies. Here, we explore the likenesses to a couple of these documents.

Health Department Permit Application: The similarities between the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement and a typical Health Department Permit Application are quite noticeable. Both forms require detailed information about the business owner, the establishment's location, and specific operational details like waste disposal and the availability of facilities such as three-compartment sinks and restroom facilities. Both documents serve the purpose of ensuring public health and safety by requiring businesses to comply with regulations before granting permission to operate. What makes them consequential is their role in maintaining food safety standards and preventing foodborne illnesses through rigorous inspection and verification processes.

Business License Application: The Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement also shares similarities with a Business License Application, particularly in how both require comprehensive details about the business, including owner information, the physical address of the operation, and the nature of the activities carried out. Where they converge is in their emphasis on regulatory compliance as a foundational step for operating legitimacy. However, while a Business License Application is broader in scope—concerning the legal operation of a business within a municipality or state—the Commissary Letter of Agreement focuses specifically on the aspects of food safety and the infrastructure necessary to uphold it, such as proper food storage, preparation, and sanitation facilities.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form, there are several dos and don'ts to keep in mind to ensure the process is completed accurately and effectively. This guidance aims to make the task less daunting and help avoid common pitfalls.

Do:
  • Read instructions carefully before starting the form to understand all requirements and ensure no sections are overlooked.
  • Gather all necessary information ahead of time, including your mobile food establishment (MFE) or self-vending ice unit (SVIU) details, primary commissary information, and any additional commissaries if used.
  • Use black or blue ink when filling out the form by hand to ensure legibility and prevent information from being missed during scanning or photocopying.
  • Review all sections for accuracy, including the owner name, phone number, address, and particularly the details regarding the commissary’s license or permit number, and activities to be conducted there.
  • Ensure signatures are dated properly. The date next to the signature of both the MFE or SVIU owner and the person in charge of the commissary must accurately reflect when the form was signed.
Don't:
  • Leave sections blank if they are applicable. If a section does not apply, it’s important to mark it as “N/A” or “None,” rather than leaving it empty, to indicate that the question was not overlooked.
  • Assume information is known without providing it. Even if certain details might seem obvious or have been provided elsewhere, ensure every relevant section is completed fully to avoid processing delays.
  • Forget to list all activities that will take place at the commissary, including those that may seem minor. Overlooking activities such as dish washing, waste dumping, or cold storage can lead to inaccuracies in what is allowed at your establishment.
  • Rush through the form without verifying information with the primary commissare. Take an opportunity to confirm details such as the license or permit number and the services provided to avoid discrepancies or errors.

By adhering to these guidelines, filling out the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form can be a smooth and straightforward process. Patience and attention to detail will pay off by ensuring that all the necessary information is accurately captured the first time, paving the way for a successful partnership with your commissary.

Misconceptions

Many misconceptions exist about the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form. Understanding these misconceptions can help ensure that the application process is completed correctly and efficiently.

  • Misconception 1: Only mobile food establishments need to fill out the form.

    In reality, both mobile food establishments and self-vending ice unit operators need to submit this form as part of their permit application process.

  • Misconception 2: The form is optional for permit approval.

    Contrary to this belief, submitting this form is mandatory for obtaining permit approval, as it is contingent upon the verification of an approved commissary.

  • Misconception 3: Any commissary can be used without formal approval.

    The form requires details about the primary commissary licensed by an appropriate authority, indicating that not all commissaries qualify.

  • Misconception 4: Water supply verification is not important.

    This form specifically requests information on the water supply, highlighting its importance for compliance with health and safety standards.

  • Misconception 5: Email addresses for the commissary are optional.

    The requirement of the primary email address for the commissary underscores the importance of clear and direct communication channels.

  • Misconception 6: All sections are to be filled by the mobile food establishment owner.

    The form clearly divides responsibilities, requiring both the mobile food establishment owner and the person in charge of the commissary to provide information and signatures.

  • Misconception 7: It's only necessary to list the activities you plan to perform at the commissary.

    While listing intended activities is mandatory, checking off available facilities like dishwashing, storage, and restroom facilities is also critical to show full compliance with requirements.

  • Misconception 8: Additional commissaries need not be declared.

    If operators use more than one commissary, they must indicate this by selecting 'Yes' and providing details on additional pages, ensuring complete disclosure of operational logistics.

Clarifying these misconceptions ensures that applicants provide all the necessary information correctly for a smoother permit application process. It's essential to read and understand each section of the form carefully before submitting it to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Food Safety.

Key takeaways

Understanding the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form is essential for anyone involved in operating a mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit in Florida. Here are key takeaways that should be considered:

  • The form serves as a critical component of the permit application process for mobile food establishments and self-vending ice units needing a commissary.
  • It is required by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), specifically by its Division of Food Safety.
  • Completing this form accurately is necessary for the verification of the commissary's approval, which is a condition for the permit's approval.
  • Both the owner of the mobile food establishment or self-vending ice unit and the person in charge of the commissary must provide their information and signatures, certifying the correctness of the information provided.
  • Details about the primary commissary must be included, such as its name, address, contact information, and license or permit number.
  • The form requires information regarding the water supply and wastewater disposal of the commissary, which must comply with health and safety regulations.
  • Applicants must specify the types of activities that will take place at the commissary, including but not limited to food storage, food preparation activities, and waste disposal.
  • Signing the document grants Food Inspectors from FDACS the authority to enter the commissary for evaluations during normal business hours.
  • If there are additional commissaries used by the mobile food establishment or ice unit, details of each must be provided on separate sheets as necessary.
  • The form emphasizes the importance of compliance with regulatory standards, underscoring that the extent of the services provided at the commissary must meet specific requirements for food safety.

Ensuring that each section of the Florida Commissary Letter of Agreement form is correctly filled out is not just a matter of bureaucratic compliance; it fundamentally supports the health and safety protocols that protect the public. Therefore, accuracy, honesty, and thoroughness are paramount when providing the required information.

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