Food Premise Operator Resources

Ottawa Public Health ensures a high level of food safety in area restaurants, cafeterias, and other food premises is maintained through regular inspections. Public health inspectors monitor all aspects of food operation to confirm that businesses are complying with provincial regulations. The inspectors also make sure any deficiencies are quickly corrected.

Food Premises Regulations

Operating a food premises in Ontario falls under Regulation 493/17 of the Health Protection and Promotion Act. Public health inspectors conduct inspections of premises serving food to the public under this act and its regulations.

Disclosure

Public health inspectors visit food establishments both on a routine and complaint-related basis to inspect for infractions, to provide education on the importance of food safety and to make sure any infractions are corrected in a timely manner. A report about each inspection is prepared and posted online and includes outstanding infractions at the conclusion of the inspection. If necessary, follow-up inspections are conducted to ensure compliance. Inspection reports are uploaded to the website within two business days after they are completed and remain on OPH's disclosure website for 2 years.

Learn more about OPH's online food safety disclosure system.

Licencing and Food Premises Applications

You must notify Ottawa Public Health at least 14 days prior to opening a food premises through the Business Information Officer at bio1stop@ottawa.ca or visit the City of Ottawa's Business Licences webpage.