← Navigator · Permits & licences
Food handler’s permits for every employee
Each person who handles food — cooks, servers, bar staff, packers — needs their own permit; the owner’s permit does not cover staff.
- Agency
- Westmoreland Health Department
- Cost
- Approx. J$500–J$1,000 per person (verify)
- Time
- Same day after training
- Contact
- Westmoreland Health Department, Savanna-la-Mar · 876-955-2521
- Online
- https://www.moh.gov.jm
Steps
- Book staff onto a food handler’s training session at the Health Department (group bookings possible for larger teams).
- Each employee brings ID, a passport photo and the fee.
- Permits are issued after the session and are valid for one year.
- Keep copies on the premises — Public Health inspectors ask to see them.
Tips
- Put renewal dates in one calendar; a lapsed permit on one worker can close the kitchen.
- New hires start training in their first week.
Last updated 17 Oct 2026. Spotted a change? Email westmorelandchamber2023@gmail.com.