Requirements for the Service of Food at Temporary Events

Many potential vendors are not aware that foods made available to the public – whether in restaurants or at temporary events like parades, fairs or festivals – are regulated statewide through N.J.A.C. 8:24 and the Town of Boonton Board of Health Code, Chapter 163.

A Temporary Retail Food License is required whenever: 

• Food is sold to the public or distributed without charge
• Food is offered via a brick-and-mortar establishment, like a restaurant or grocery store
• Food is vended by a mobile establishment, like a catering or ice cream truck
• Food is provided at temporary events like parades, carnivals or farmer’s markets
• Food is fully prepared from fresh ingredients or pre-wrapped (i.e., sealed sodas, pre-packaged candies).

Like you, the Boonton Health Department wishes to keep the community safe.  We are here to answer your questions; a Temporary Retail Food License application can be found here or be obtained by contacting the Health Department:

Town of Boonton Health Department
100 Washington Street
Boonton, NJ 07005

Telephone: 973-402-9410, ext. 633

Individuals or corporations found vending foods to the public without first having obtained a retail food license may be subject to summons and court action, so please…

When in doubt, reach out!