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Who needs a certified food protection manager in Iowa?

Issued by DIAL or the contracted county health department, under 481 IAC 31.1 (FDA Food Code 2-102.12), at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

9 of the 20 kinds of business in Iowa

Does not need it

Every food establishment needs a person in charge who holds a food protection manager certificate from an accredited exam; a newly licensed business has six months to meet it and six months to replace a departing manager. Places selling only prepackaged food, temporary stands and bars that prepare no food are exempt.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by DIAL or the contracted county health department, under 481 IAC 31.1 (FDA Food Code 2-102.12).

Sources and dates

481 IAC 31.1 (Iowa adoption of the 2017 FDA Food Code); county inspection program guidance. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.