Allegheny County Fish Fry Permit Deadline Rapidly Approaching

PITTSBURGH, PA — With Lent beginning on Feb. 14, the Allegheny County Health Department ) is reminding fish fry sponsors that they must have a valid food permit.

That permit is a requirement for all food facilities in Allegheny County, including temporary fish fries.

"Following proper food safety procedures is the best way to ensure fish fry patrons enjoy this long-standing tradition in Allegheny County," said Otis Pitts, the health department's deputy director for food safety, housing and policy.

The health department "works directly with the fish fry organizers to assure safe processes and confirm that organizations that apply for temporary fish fry permits have adequate food preparation equipment and trained food workers."

Sponsors that do not already have a valid health permit must complete a temporary permit application and provide the permit fee to the health department by Jan. 31.

Applications and payments may be submitted online or submitted by mail to the food safety program, 2121 Noblestown Road, Suite 210, Pittsburgh, PA 15205. Checks and money orders will be accepted and must be made payable to the Treasurer of Allegheny County.

The fee for a temporary permit is $50 for for-profit organizations and $45 for nonprofits. The application contains a checklist for applicants to help fish fries operate in accordance with accepted food safety protocols. The checklist must be completed for a fish fry to receive a temporary permit.