Temporary Food Events at the Golden Gate National Recreation Area

View of the Fort Mason Center's temporary food event "Off The Grid" looking north towards Sausalito. "Off The Grid" is a weekly food event open to the public.

photo courtesy of Fort Mason Center

 

Each year, hundreds of events involving food service take place on Golden Gate National Recreation Area (GGNRA) property. Every event requires the appropriate Temporary Food Event permits. Since GGNRA is federal land, all food vendors must comply with NPS Reference Manual 83A and the latest version of the FDA Food Code.

 

What is a Temporary Food Event (TFE)?

A TFE is an event that provides food to the public and can last up to 14 consecutive days. Examples include street fairs and festivals, musical and artistic presentations, holiday and ethnic celebrations, trade shows, mobile food trucks, mobile food tents and product introductions at which food is sold, sampled, or given away to the public.

When is a Temporary Food Event Permit (TFE) required?

Any person (or organization) intending to sell, sample, or give away food to the public within the GGNRA may require a TFE permit.

Do private events require a Temporary Food Event (TFE) Permit?

Maybe. Generally private events are not permitted, but they may require some oversight depending on the number of attendees and types of food provided. Please inquire with your point of contact.

 

Do GGNRA Temporary Food Event requirements differ from California?

Yes. The GGNRA requires all food vendors to adhere to the current FDA Food Code and NPS Reference Manual 83A.

Significant differences include but are not limited to:

CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER (CFM):
A CFM is required to be present throughout the duration of the event and have a copy of their credential. Get certified here.
PARTIAL COOKING:
Partial (non-continuous) cooking is prohibited. All food items are required to be cooked in one step. Example: Pre-searing hamburger or chicken prior to cooking is not permitted.
GLOVE USE:
Gloves are required when handling all ready-to-eat foods. No barehand contact!
LATEX GLOVES ARE PROHIBITED.
HANDWASHING:
Food vendors are responsible for bringing appropriate handwashing equipment.
ALLERGEN LABELING:
All food items must be labeled with all major allergen on the menu or food packaging. Each point of service shall post a notification stating, “Allergen information for all foods available upon request” AND have written information on the major food allergens present in each food item if request.
TEMPERATURE CONTROL:
Cold Holding (41°F or below): Food vendors are responsible for bringing equipment (coolers, ice, etc) that can hold food at 41°F or below.
Hot Holding (135°F or above): Food vendors are responsible for bringing equipment that can hold food at 135°F or above.

Warning: Any food outside of these temperature requirements or not being held in proper equipment may be discarded at the discretion of the public health officer.

 

What is the process for applying for a TFE permit?

Event Organizers must work with their primary Fort Mason Center or National Park Service point of contact. Event Organizers must submit completed applications at least 14 days prior to the event.

Completed application packets includes:

• Completed TFE Event Organization Application
• All completed TFE Vendor Applications (Each TFE Vendor Application must also include: seller’s permit, certified food manager credential, and menu)
• Liability Insurance

Warning: Incomplete or late applications will be denied.

 

Who should I contact to get a Temporary Food Event application or for any related questions?

Please contact your primary point of contact with the Fort Mason Center or the National Park Service to obtain current TFE applications and requirements.
For public health questions, please submit your question for the GGNRA Public Health Officer. Be sure to include enough information for a proper response.