Environmental Health is a branch of public health that focuses on prevention of disease in a community through direct intervention. This is done through inspections and enforcement of various state and local laws, all of which are designed to promote a healthier community. The Environmental Health Division oversees the following programs in our community: •Food Safety (Food Handler's Permit, Restaurant Inspection) •Drinking Water •On-site Sewage (Septic Inspections) •Land Use •Water Recreation (Public Swimming Pool inspection) •School Facility Reviews •Solid Waste •Zoonotic Disease (animal to human) Surveillance and Investigation (animal bites - dogs, cats, bats, etc.)

Regulates all retail food service establishments in the city of Tacoma and Pierce County. Provides education and epidemiologic surveillance, investigates consumer concerns and food borne illness reports. Regulates public and private schools, public swimming pools, and spas.

Conducts inspections, investigates complaints (including vector complaints), issues permits, and enforces regulations for retail food service establishments, temporary events, schools, camps, parks, and water recreation facilities (pools/spas).  Conducts PSP (red tide) sampling.  Administers food handler card classes and testing.

Operates a hotline for consumers to report food problems.  Complaints can be about food purchased at the grocery store or eaten in a restaurant, or about a food processor or warehouse facility.   Depending on the nature of the complaint, type of food product, the place of purchase, and the location it was prepared or manufactured, WSDA will either conduct the preliminary investigation internally or refer the complaint to food safety colleagues at the local, state or federal agencies.  

Inspects public facilities such as schools and water recreation facilities (pools and spas). Plans, reviews and inspects certain commercial facilities (massage parlors, tattoo parlors and public bathhouses). Provides routine inspection of food service establishments such as restaurants, grocery stores, taverns and ice cream vendors. Responds to citizens' complaints and has enforcement authority. Also inspects and certifies red meats, fish and poultry. Investigates consumer fraud through misrepresentation in product advertising, improper dating or pricing, etc.

Provides environmental health information to protect the food, water, and living conditions in Okanogan County. Assists with the following services: -  Food Worker Card -  Food Service Inspections -  Environmental Hazards Section -  Facilities Inspection -  Rodent Control -  Rabies Control