• Food & Health Permits
The Upper Darby Township Department of Licenses & Inspections (L&I) works in coordination with the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) to ensure that food establishments and regulated facilities operate in a safe and sanitary manner.
While L&I enforces building, zoning, fire safety, and property maintenance regulations, the Delaware County Health Department is the primary agency responsible for food safety licensing, inspections, and public health enforcement.
Who Regulates Food Establishments
Food and health-related licensing and inspections are handled by Delaware County Health Department (DCHD)
The DCHD is responsible for:
• Licensing food facilities
• Conducting routine inspections
• Investigating complaints and foodborne illnesses
• Enforcing food safety regulations
• Reviewing and approving food facility applications
This includes facilities such as:
• Restaurants and take-out establishments
• Grocery stores and supermarkets
• School cafeterias
• Daycares and institutional kitchens
• Mobile food vendors and food trucks
• Temporary food events and festivals
• Farmers markets
Important Note for Business Owners
If you are opening, purchasing, or operating a food-related business in Upper Darby Township:
• You must obtain approval and licensing from the Delaware County Health Department
• You will also need approvals from Upper Darby L&I (building permits, zoning, Use & Occupancy, fire inspections, etc.)
Both Township and County approvals are required and are separate processes.
How to Apply for a Food License
Applications must be submitted directly to the Delaware County Health Department.
Method 1: Fast & Digital (Recommended)
• Complete payment online through MuniciPAY
• Email your application and all required documents to:
environmental@co.delaware.pa.us
Important:
• All documents must be submitted as PDF files
• Photos of documents will not be accepted
• Applications are not complete until both payment and documentation are received
Method 2: Mail or In-Person
Applications and payment may also be submitted by mail or drop-off:
Delaware County Health Department
Environmental Health Division
Rose Tree 1
1400 N Providence Rd, Suite 212
Media, PA 19063
Important:
• Payment must be made by check or money order
• Cash is not accepted
Inspections and Compliance
The Delaware County Health Department conducts inspections to ensure compliance with:
• Delaware County Food Regulations
• Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture requirements
• 2022 FDA Food Code
Inspections are conducted for:
• Restaurants and retail food facilities
• Temporary food events
• Mobile food vendors
• Institutional facilities (schools, nursing homes, camps, etc.)
Complaints and Public Health Concerns
If you:
• Become sick after eating at a food establishment
• Observe unsanitary or unsafe conditions
• Have concerns about food safety or public health
You should contact the Delaware County Health Department directly.
Report a Complaint
Phone: 484-276-2100 (Available 24/7)
Email: DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
Complaints are investigated and kept confidential.
Food Safety Resources
The Delaware County Health Department provides additional resources, including:
• Restaurant inspection reports
• Food safety guidance and educational materials
• Approved food safety certification programs
• Information for temporary events and mobile vendors
Applicants and business owners are encouraged to review these resources prior to opening or operating a facility.
| FEES |
|---|
| Fees for Food Facilities |
| DELAWARE COUNTY FOOD REGULATIONS |
|---|
| CHAPTER 700, §701. License, Inspection and Service Fees |
| Chapter 300. Food Safety and Retail Food Safety |
| US FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION CODE |
|---|
| 2022 FDA Food Code |
Relationship to Township Requirements
In addition to County health approvals, food establishments in Upper Darby Township will also require:
• Zoning Approval
• Building Permits (for construction, renovations, repairs, tenant-fit outs)
• Electrical, Plumbing, and Mechanical Permits
• Fire Safety Inspections
• Use & Occupancy Certificate
Failure to obtain all required approvals may delay opening or result in enforcement action.
Contact Information
Delaware County Health Department (Primary Contact)
Phone: 484-276-2100 (24/7 Wellness Line)
Email: DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
Upper Darby Department of Licenses & Inspections
For questions related to Township permits, zoning, or occupancy requirements:
Email: LI@UpperDarby.org
Phone: 610-734-7613
Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.
To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.
