Food Establishments

IMPORTANT: Changes to Food Licensing and Inspections

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Model Food Code began phasing in in Connecticut on July 1, 2017 and is in full effect as of February 16, 2023. The Health Department will continue to provide updates and guidance to food establishments as the transition takes place. 

Click here to read the February 2023 letter sent to Food Establishments and Qualified Food Operators outlining the upcoming changes to the food licensing and inspection process. Forms and other required paperwork will be forthcoming. 

Inspection Responsibilities

Certified food inspectors are responsible for inspecting and licensing all food service operations within the City of Norwalk. This responsibility includes:

  • Conducting plan reviews for all new and renovated food-related facilities
  • Inspecting and licensing all food-related activities at temporary food events and festivals
  • Inspecting food service operations and establishments routinely to protect against food-borne illnesses resulting from health code violations, contaminated food, and improper food handling
  • Assisting establishment owners and operators in food safety training to become Certified Food Protection Managers (formerly referred to as qualified food operators)
  • Responding and addressing customer complaints regarding reports of food-related violations

Restaurant Ratings

More than 10 years ago, the Norwalk Board of Health established the Lighthouse Certificate Award Program to recognize city food establishments that maintained the highest rating for inspections in the previous year. You can view the 2022 winners here. While we work to transition to the FDA Food Code and determine if and how this program can continue, our online restaurant search will not be available. Thanks for understanding.

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