virginia · readiness check

are you actually ready?

Answer honestly. We'll score your health, food-safety, license, and tax readiness and build your punch list as you go. Takes about two minutes. No login.

health & food safety

Current health department permit, posted

It is the first thing an inspector looks for. No valid permit, no service.

Certified Food Protection Manager on staff

Most Virginia kitchens need a ServSafe-certified manager on duty.

Written employee health and illness policy

Sick-employee rules and a reporting agreement are standard inspection items.

Documented cleaning and sanitation schedule

Inspectors want to see a system, not a once-a-week scramble.

Hot and cold holding temperature logs

Missing temp logs are among the most-cited violations.

Handwashing stations stocked and accessible

Soap, towels, hot water, and nothing blocking the sink.

Allergen awareness and cross-contact process

Staff should know the big allergens and how you handle them.

Last inspection's corrections all closed out

Repeat violations turn a warning into a real problem.

licenses & taxes

Local business license (BPOL) current

Your county or town business license, renewed and paid.

Virginia sales and use tax registered and filing

Registered with Virginia Tax and filing on schedule.

Local meals / prepared-food tax set up

Most Virginia localities levy a separate meals tax you collect and remit.

Tobacco / cigarette permit (if you sell it)

Only if you sell tobacco or vapor products.

Transient occupancy (lodging) tax (if you host stays)

For inns, B&Bs, and farm stays renting rooms.

Annual Virginia litter tax filed

A small, easy-to-miss annual filing for food and beverage sellers.

Federal EIN and state employer registration

Needed to run payroll and file employment taxes.

operations & premises

Certificate of occupancy on file

Proves the space is approved for your use and occupancy load.

Zoning / use permit matches what you actually do

Events, tastings, and food service can each need approval.

Sign permit(s) for exterior signage

Most localities permit signs separately.

Fire inspection, extinguishers, and suppression current

Tagged extinguishers and a current hood-suppression service.

Music licensing (ASCAP/BMI/SESAC) if you play music

Public performance of music, live or recorded, usually needs a license.

General liability (and liquor liability) insurance current

Proof of coverage, plus dram-shop coverage if you serve alcohol.

your punch list

Nothing flagged yet. Mark items as “gap” and they'll land here.

get the full report

on its way.

Thanks. We'll send your full readiness report and a prioritized punch list within one business day, with exactly what to fix first.