Licensed Establishments
Richland County contracts with the State Department of Public Health and Human Services Environmental Health and Food Safety Section (DPHHS) to conduct inspections, licensing, and plan review on all food service establishments, including mobile units, wholesale food facilities, hotels and short-term rentals, tattoo and piercing shops including cosmetic tattooing, trailer courts/campgrounds/RV parks, and work camps. These establishments are licensed by DPHHS and inspected by a sanitarian at least annually, and must adhere to state and local regulations. Hard copies of these regulations or inspection reports are available upon request.
Retail Establishment Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 50
Wholesale Food Manufacturing Resources and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 57
Hotel (Public Accommodations) Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 51
Trailer Courts/Campgrounds/RV Parks Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 52
Body Art (Tattoo & Piercing) Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 48
Montana Code Annotated Title 75, Chapter 10,
Montana Code Annotated Title 45, Chapter 5, Part 6
Each of these regulated establishments must undergo a plan review process and an inspection prior to licensing and service. Each establishment may also be subject to additional rules and regulations from other agencies. For additional information or to begin the process to obtain a license, please contact the Environmental Health Office.
Retail Establishment Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 50
Wholesale Food Manufacturing Resources and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 57
Hotel (Public Accommodations) Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 51
Trailer Courts/Campgrounds/RV Parks Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 52
Body Art (Tattoo & Piercing) Rules and Montana Code Annotated Title 50, Chapter 48
Montana Code Annotated Title 75, Chapter 10,
Montana Code Annotated Title 45, Chapter 5, Part 6
Each of these regulated establishments must undergo a plan review process and an inspection prior to licensing and service. Each establishment may also be subject to additional rules and regulations from other agencies. For additional information or to begin the process to obtain a license, please contact the Environmental Health Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
General licensing questions
Where can I get the license forms?
License forms can only be obtained from the Health Department. License forms are only available once plan review is complete and approved. These forms are carbon copy and cannot be sent electronically.
How often do I have to pay for a license?
Licenses are valid from January 1 to December 31 each year. This means they expire after December 31st. You will receive a license renewal by mail and by email by November from the State Health Department every year. Fees are submitted directly to the State. You may pay by credit card or bank draft, or by mail. You MUST submit license fees before December 31 to maintain your license. Licenses renewed after December 31 are subject to a $25 late fee. Licenses not paid by March 31 are automatically invalidated.
Where can I find the state requirements for my establishment?
You can visit the Department of Public Health and Human Services Environmental Health and Food Safety Section (State Health Department) or use the links above. Contact the Richland County Health Department for a review packet.
How often will I be inspected?
Establishments are inspected no less than one time per calendar year. Inspections are unannounced (with very specific exceptions). The health inspector, a Montana registered Sanitarian, must be permitted free access to the facility under Montana law. Additional inspections may be conducted to obtain compliance, or for the investigation of a complaint or illness.
How are inspections documented?
Inspection results are recorded on carbon-copy inspection reports issued by the State Health Department. These inspection reports are legal documents, and are available to the public upon request. The inspection reports contain licensing information, observations noted during the inspection, compliance requirements and timelines, and references. The inspection report is signed by the person in charge, and a yellow copy is left with the person in charge.
How do I get a copy of an inspection?
You may contact the Health Department to obtain a copy of an inspection report. You will be required to submit a short form. Fees may be charged for extensive printing. Inspection reports are not posted electronically.
Food Service
How do I open a restaurant in Richland County?
Contact the Health Department to obtain a food service plan review packet. You will need to have the basic details-the who, what and where-developed in order to complete the packet. You MUST complete and submit the packet, obtain approval, complete the license form and submit fees BEFORE you open for business. It's a good idea to contact the Health Department prior to purchasing or leasing a space to ensure the existing structure will meet state requirements.
Once you complete and submit the packet and all state requirements are met, the Sanitarian will schedule a licensing inspection, where she will meet you at your space to complete a pre-opening inspection. You will then complete the license form and submit fees. This must take place BEFORE you open for business. License fees are subject to change based on legislation. License fees are submitted to the State Health Department and can only be accepted by check or money order. Current license fee schedule
Is the health license the only thing I need to operate?
There may be many other offices that your establishment will be required to obtain approval. Some helpful references are below. This list is not exhaustive-it is your responsibility to determine what approvals you need to operate your business.
Richland County Building Inspector/Fire Marshall
City of Sidney
Town of Fairview
Montana Department of Revenue-Alcoholic Beverage Control
Montana Secretary of State-Business Services
I know someone who makes awesome homemade buns (or any other food products made in a home), can I sell these in my licensed establishment?
No, food products that are made at home under the Montana Local Food Choice Act cannot be sold or served in a retail establishment.
I love the concept of Farm to Table. Can I use local products in my licensed establishment?
All products used in a licensed retail establishment must come from an approved source. This means that products generally must come from another licensed establishment, like a commercial distributor, local grocery store, warehouse store such as Costco, etc. Under certain circumstances, raw agricultural products like whole fresh vegetables from a local farm may be used. Eggs must come from an egg grader licensed through the Department of Livestock. Meat products must come from a USDA processor based on Federal law. Custom processed meat products are prohibited from use or sale in a licensed retail establishment. The use or sale of raw milk and products made from raw milk is strictly forbidden under Federal law.
Do I need to have a grease trap on my sinks?
The Health Department does not advise on grease traps. Contact your public sewer system manager, such as the City of Sidney or Town of Fairview public works department.
Food Trucks
How do I get licensed for a food truck?
A food truck (also called a concessions trailer, mobile food unit, mobile restaurant, etc) is licensed the same way as a brick-and-mortar food service establishment. You would obtain a plan review packet from the Health Department. There are additional requirements for water and wastewater tanks and wastewater disposal on a mobile food unit. It is recommended that you contact the Health Department BEFORE purchasing a mobile food unit.
Where can I set up my food truck?
The Health Department does not maintain a list of spaces for food trucks. However, in order to obtain and maintain a license in Richland County, you MUST operate within the bounds of Richland County during the calendar year and provide the Health Department an opportunity for inspection.
Can I operate my food truck in Richland County if I'm licensed in another Montana county? Alternatively, can I operate my food truck that is licensed in Richland County in other Montana counties?
Yes and yes! A food truck receives a state-wide license. You must check with your destination county to determine if there are any additional local requirements or fees.
You CANNOT operate a Montana-licensed food truck in another state under a Montana license, and you CANNOT operate a food truck that is licensed in another state in Montana without obtaining a Montana license.
I want to bring my food truck to Richland County. I'm licensed in North Dakota (or another state). What do I do?
You would follow the steps above to obtain a food service review packet. You may be issued a local, temporary license for operation. Under the definition of a temporary food establishment, you may operate at a fixed location for no more than 21 days in conjunction with an event, or operate at a single, recurring event using a fixed menu for no more than 45 days. You will not be issued a permanent, state license in Richland County if you do not operate more than 21/45 days.
Can I make food/wash dishes/store products from my food truck in my home, garage or property?
No, everything related to the food truck establishment must be done and stored in the food truck.
Public Accommodations (hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, Air Bnbs)
I want to start an AirBnb (or vacation rental,, VRBO, etc). Do I need a license?
Yes! Short-term rentals like an AirBnb are regulated and require a license to operate. Visit the State Health Department page for more information. You must complete the plan review and receive approval and a license prior to offering your establishment for rent. A short-term rental is only subject to one pre-opening inspection.
Body Art (tattooing, including cosmetic tattooing, and piercing)
I want to start offering tattoos and piercings. How do I get started?
Visit the State Health Department and review the laws and rules for these establishments. Complete and submit the plan review application. You will need to submit a sample consent form, written aftercare instructions, and training certificates for you and all other artists. Once your application is approved, we'll schedule a pre-opening inspection and licensing.
Are the body piercing and tattoo licenses separate?
Yes! Each is a separate license, each with a separate cost. The establishment is subject to one inspection annually.
I want to do permanent makeup, do I need a license?
Yes, permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing, meets the definition of tattooing under Montana law. You are required to follow all laws and rules for tattooing on any other part of the body.
Do I need training to become a tattoo artist, permanent cosmetics artist, or a piercer?
By law, these positions are required to have a first aid, bloodborne pathogens, and general sanitation certificate on file. Other than these trainings, there are no other educational requirements, though proper training in your craft is highly encouraged.
Similarly, as a consumer seeking a tattoo or piercing, it is your responsibility to research the artist’s qualifications and certifications before getting a tattoo or piercing. Body art licensing does not equate to a mastery of craft.
Can I remove tattoos under my tattoo license?
No, you cannot remove tattoos under a tattoo license. By definition, tattooing is inserting pigment into the skin, so removal, including injecting saline into the tattoo, does not meet that definition.
Can I do microneedling, dermaplaning, etc., under my tattoo license?
No, microneedling, dermaplaning, and other cosmetic procedures do not fall under a tattoo license. If you are a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician, contact your state board for more information.
Do I need to use an autoclave in my shop?
An autoclave is not required if you purchase individually wrapped and sterilize items from the supplier. If you choose to use an autoclave, a monthly spore test through a certified laboratory is required. These are mail-in tests. Records will be requested at your regular inspection.
Can the work room hand sink be located outside of the room?
Ideally, the work room should have a hand sink located inside the room. However, the hand sink may be located within 10 feet of the work room so long as the work room has a double-sided self-closing door.
Can the hand sink be in the bathroom?
The hand sink cannot be located in a bathroom.
Where can I get a sharps box?
You are required to maintain a contract with a licensed infectious waste disposal company. They will provide you with a sharps box and instructions for pick-up or mail-in disposal. You cannot simply purchase a sharps box. There are no local infectious waste disposal companies.
Can I use a peel-off pencil for marking or stenciling?
No, the use of a peel-off pencil is strictly prohibited as they are not considered sanitary. You may use single-use transfer paper, a single use marker or pencil, or another sanitary method of transfer.
What does my client forms need to say?
There is specific language that needs to be included on your client forms. A list is included in the review packet that you may obtain from the Health Department. We highly recommend editing and adopting the state model.
Miscellaneous
My address says Montana, but my physical property is in North Dakota. Which rules do I follow?
If your property is physically located in North Dakota, you would follow North Dakota ruleswww.hhs.nd.gov/health/food-and-lodging, regardless of your address.
I think I got food poisoning-what should I do?
If you are feeling ill, you should seek appropriate medical attention. If your medical provider suspects foodborne illness, they will contact or refer you to the Health Department. You may be tested for foodborne pathogens. The Health Department will follow-up with you to obtain more information about your illness and the potential causes.
How can I make a complaint about an establishment?
You can visit the Health Department's complaint page to submit a complaint about a licensed establishment. You may also call the Health Department. You should be sure to include your contact information, the date of the incident, the establishment name, and important details. If you have provided contact information, the Health Department may contact you for more information. The Health Department does not provide follow-up with you after the complaint is investigated, however, you may request documents from the Department. See the information above.
I want to make and sell food at home. How can I do that?
There are many opportunities for home-based businesses. Visit our Farmer's Market and Other Food Sales page for more information.
Updated 3-18-26
Where can I get the license forms?
License forms can only be obtained from the Health Department. License forms are only available once plan review is complete and approved. These forms are carbon copy and cannot be sent electronically.
How often do I have to pay for a license?
Licenses are valid from January 1 to December 31 each year. This means they expire after December 31st. You will receive a license renewal by mail and by email by November from the State Health Department every year. Fees are submitted directly to the State. You may pay by credit card or bank draft, or by mail. You MUST submit license fees before December 31 to maintain your license. Licenses renewed after December 31 are subject to a $25 late fee. Licenses not paid by March 31 are automatically invalidated.
Where can I find the state requirements for my establishment?
You can visit the Department of Public Health and Human Services Environmental Health and Food Safety Section (State Health Department) or use the links above. Contact the Richland County Health Department for a review packet.
How often will I be inspected?
Establishments are inspected no less than one time per calendar year. Inspections are unannounced (with very specific exceptions). The health inspector, a Montana registered Sanitarian, must be permitted free access to the facility under Montana law. Additional inspections may be conducted to obtain compliance, or for the investigation of a complaint or illness.
How are inspections documented?
Inspection results are recorded on carbon-copy inspection reports issued by the State Health Department. These inspection reports are legal documents, and are available to the public upon request. The inspection reports contain licensing information, observations noted during the inspection, compliance requirements and timelines, and references. The inspection report is signed by the person in charge, and a yellow copy is left with the person in charge.
How do I get a copy of an inspection?
You may contact the Health Department to obtain a copy of an inspection report. You will be required to submit a short form. Fees may be charged for extensive printing. Inspection reports are not posted electronically.
Food Service
How do I open a restaurant in Richland County?
Contact the Health Department to obtain a food service plan review packet. You will need to have the basic details-the who, what and where-developed in order to complete the packet. You MUST complete and submit the packet, obtain approval, complete the license form and submit fees BEFORE you open for business. It's a good idea to contact the Health Department prior to purchasing or leasing a space to ensure the existing structure will meet state requirements.
Once you complete and submit the packet and all state requirements are met, the Sanitarian will schedule a licensing inspection, where she will meet you at your space to complete a pre-opening inspection. You will then complete the license form and submit fees. This must take place BEFORE you open for business. License fees are subject to change based on legislation. License fees are submitted to the State Health Department and can only be accepted by check or money order. Current license fee schedule
Is the health license the only thing I need to operate?
There may be many other offices that your establishment will be required to obtain approval. Some helpful references are below. This list is not exhaustive-it is your responsibility to determine what approvals you need to operate your business.
Richland County Building Inspector/Fire Marshall
City of Sidney
Town of Fairview
Montana Department of Revenue-Alcoholic Beverage Control
Montana Secretary of State-Business Services
I know someone who makes awesome homemade buns (or any other food products made in a home), can I sell these in my licensed establishment?
No, food products that are made at home under the Montana Local Food Choice Act cannot be sold or served in a retail establishment.
I love the concept of Farm to Table. Can I use local products in my licensed establishment?
All products used in a licensed retail establishment must come from an approved source. This means that products generally must come from another licensed establishment, like a commercial distributor, local grocery store, warehouse store such as Costco, etc. Under certain circumstances, raw agricultural products like whole fresh vegetables from a local farm may be used. Eggs must come from an egg grader licensed through the Department of Livestock. Meat products must come from a USDA processor based on Federal law. Custom processed meat products are prohibited from use or sale in a licensed retail establishment. The use or sale of raw milk and products made from raw milk is strictly forbidden under Federal law.
Do I need to have a grease trap on my sinks?
The Health Department does not advise on grease traps. Contact your public sewer system manager, such as the City of Sidney or Town of Fairview public works department.
Food Trucks
How do I get licensed for a food truck?
A food truck (also called a concessions trailer, mobile food unit, mobile restaurant, etc) is licensed the same way as a brick-and-mortar food service establishment. You would obtain a plan review packet from the Health Department. There are additional requirements for water and wastewater tanks and wastewater disposal on a mobile food unit. It is recommended that you contact the Health Department BEFORE purchasing a mobile food unit.
Where can I set up my food truck?
The Health Department does not maintain a list of spaces for food trucks. However, in order to obtain and maintain a license in Richland County, you MUST operate within the bounds of Richland County during the calendar year and provide the Health Department an opportunity for inspection.
Can I operate my food truck in Richland County if I'm licensed in another Montana county? Alternatively, can I operate my food truck that is licensed in Richland County in other Montana counties?
Yes and yes! A food truck receives a state-wide license. You must check with your destination county to determine if there are any additional local requirements or fees.
You CANNOT operate a Montana-licensed food truck in another state under a Montana license, and you CANNOT operate a food truck that is licensed in another state in Montana without obtaining a Montana license.
I want to bring my food truck to Richland County. I'm licensed in North Dakota (or another state). What do I do?
You would follow the steps above to obtain a food service review packet. You may be issued a local, temporary license for operation. Under the definition of a temporary food establishment, you may operate at a fixed location for no more than 21 days in conjunction with an event, or operate at a single, recurring event using a fixed menu for no more than 45 days. You will not be issued a permanent, state license in Richland County if you do not operate more than 21/45 days.
Can I make food/wash dishes/store products from my food truck in my home, garage or property?
No, everything related to the food truck establishment must be done and stored in the food truck.
Public Accommodations (hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, Air Bnbs)
I want to start an AirBnb (or vacation rental,, VRBO, etc). Do I need a license?
Yes! Short-term rentals like an AirBnb are regulated and require a license to operate. Visit the State Health Department page for more information. You must complete the plan review and receive approval and a license prior to offering your establishment for rent. A short-term rental is only subject to one pre-opening inspection.
Body Art (tattooing, including cosmetic tattooing, and piercing)
I want to start offering tattoos and piercings. How do I get started?
Visit the State Health Department and review the laws and rules for these establishments. Complete and submit the plan review application. You will need to submit a sample consent form, written aftercare instructions, and training certificates for you and all other artists. Once your application is approved, we'll schedule a pre-opening inspection and licensing.
Are the body piercing and tattoo licenses separate?
Yes! Each is a separate license, each with a separate cost. The establishment is subject to one inspection annually.
I want to do permanent makeup, do I need a license?
Yes, permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattooing, meets the definition of tattooing under Montana law. You are required to follow all laws and rules for tattooing on any other part of the body.
Do I need training to become a tattoo artist, permanent cosmetics artist, or a piercer?
By law, these positions are required to have a first aid, bloodborne pathogens, and general sanitation certificate on file. Other than these trainings, there are no other educational requirements, though proper training in your craft is highly encouraged.
Similarly, as a consumer seeking a tattoo or piercing, it is your responsibility to research the artist’s qualifications and certifications before getting a tattoo or piercing. Body art licensing does not equate to a mastery of craft.
Can I remove tattoos under my tattoo license?
No, you cannot remove tattoos under a tattoo license. By definition, tattooing is inserting pigment into the skin, so removal, including injecting saline into the tattoo, does not meet that definition.
Can I do microneedling, dermaplaning, etc., under my tattoo license?
No, microneedling, dermaplaning, and other cosmetic procedures do not fall under a tattoo license. If you are a licensed cosmetologist or esthetician, contact your state board for more information.
Do I need to use an autoclave in my shop?
An autoclave is not required if you purchase individually wrapped and sterilize items from the supplier. If you choose to use an autoclave, a monthly spore test through a certified laboratory is required. These are mail-in tests. Records will be requested at your regular inspection.
Can the work room hand sink be located outside of the room?
Ideally, the work room should have a hand sink located inside the room. However, the hand sink may be located within 10 feet of the work room so long as the work room has a double-sided self-closing door.
Can the hand sink be in the bathroom?
The hand sink cannot be located in a bathroom.
Where can I get a sharps box?
You are required to maintain a contract with a licensed infectious waste disposal company. They will provide you with a sharps box and instructions for pick-up or mail-in disposal. You cannot simply purchase a sharps box. There are no local infectious waste disposal companies.
Can I use a peel-off pencil for marking or stenciling?
No, the use of a peel-off pencil is strictly prohibited as they are not considered sanitary. You may use single-use transfer paper, a single use marker or pencil, or another sanitary method of transfer.
What does my client forms need to say?
There is specific language that needs to be included on your client forms. A list is included in the review packet that you may obtain from the Health Department. We highly recommend editing and adopting the state model.
Miscellaneous
My address says Montana, but my physical property is in North Dakota. Which rules do I follow?
If your property is physically located in North Dakota, you would follow North Dakota ruleswww.hhs.nd.gov/health/food-and-lodging, regardless of your address.
I think I got food poisoning-what should I do?
If you are feeling ill, you should seek appropriate medical attention. If your medical provider suspects foodborne illness, they will contact or refer you to the Health Department. You may be tested for foodborne pathogens. The Health Department will follow-up with you to obtain more information about your illness and the potential causes.
How can I make a complaint about an establishment?
You can visit the Health Department's complaint page to submit a complaint about a licensed establishment. You may also call the Health Department. You should be sure to include your contact information, the date of the incident, the establishment name, and important details. If you have provided contact information, the Health Department may contact you for more information. The Health Department does not provide follow-up with you after the complaint is investigated, however, you may request documents from the Department. See the information above.
I want to make and sell food at home. How can I do that?
There are many opportunities for home-based businesses. Visit our Farmer's Market and Other Food Sales page for more information.
Updated 3-18-26