1. Determine which agency licenses the food establishment here.  If the food establishment in question falls directly under Michigan Department of Agriculture jurisdiction, continue  with the rest of these steps.
   
   
2. Before construction on the food establishment begins (when applicable) make sure to check local zoning ordinances to ensure local regulations allow for such an establishment.
   
   
3. Acquaint yourself with the 
   • Michigan Food Law of 2000, 
   • 1999 Federal Food Code
   • Consumer Pricing and Advertising Regulation, 
   • Weights and Measures Act 
   • Weights, Measures, Packaging and Labeling Regulation.  
     

   In addition, one or more of the following regulations may be applicable to your specific establishment plan:

• Manufacturing, Packing or Holding Human Food
• Thermally Processed Low-Acid Foods Packaged in Hermetically Sealed Containers
• Acidified Foods
• Fish and Fishery Products
• Processing and Bottling of Bottled Drinking Water
• Michigan Smoked Fish Regulation
  
  
4. Contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture regional office nearest you to set up a free plan review.
   
   
5. Fill out a Plan Review Worksheet and Plan Review Application.  Be sure to review the plan submission instructions and manual.
   
   
6. Once plans have been reviewed and approved, and construction is complete, contact the MDA Regional Office nearest you to set up a final inspection.  At this point you should also fill out the
   Food Establishment Licensing Application.

If you have any questions, please contact the regional office nearest you, or, write or call:

Michigan Department of Agriculture
Food and Dairy Division
PO Box 30017
Lansing, MI  48909
517-373-1060