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Public Guidance and Informational Bulletin Library

The Department of Environmental Health has produced numerous documents and guidelines that provide useful information on number of different topics. Please use the menu on the left side of your screen to navigate to the appropriate section.

All documents on this page are provided in the Adobe Acrobat (pdf) format. Please contact us if you need to request documents in alternative formats. To download the latest version of the free Adobe Acrobat software please click here and follow the installation instructions.

Some guidance documents available in HTML format

Body Art

Document Description
Body Art Facility Plan Check Guide A guide explaining the body art facility plan checking requirements.
Body Art Facility Self-Inspection Guide  An inspection checklist, designed to be used by facility operators, to assist with compliance
New Body Art Facility Checklist A list that shows the documentation needed to help obtain a Body Art Facility permit
California Penal Code 652-653 A verbatim text of the CA Penal Code sections covering body art.
Infection Prevention and Control Plan Guideline A plan specifying procedures to achieve compliance with the Safe Body Art Act

 

Domestic Water Wells

Document Description
Arsenic in Lower Coachella Water Systems (English) A guide of frequently asked questions regarding the arsenic levels observed in wells in the lower Coachella valley.
Arsenic in Lower Coachella Water Systems (Spanish) A guide of frequently asked questions regarding the arsenic levels observed in wells in the lower Coachella valley. (Español)
Disinfection of Domestic Well Waters A guide detailing disinfection procedures for domestic water wells.
USDA Drought Assistance Information on USDA rural development programs offering drought assistance.              
RCAC Household Water Well Assistance Information on the Rural Community Assistance Corporation (RCAC) household water well system loan program.

 

Food Facilities

 

Fixed Facilities

Document Description
Animal Slaughtering Requirements (HTML) A guide explaining animal slaughtering requirements on residential property and/or custom preparation of animal carcasses in retail food facilities.
Approved Food Sources  Guidelines for determining approved food sources. 
Award of Recognition (HTML) A guide explaining what the award of recognition program entails and facility eligibility.
Catering Guidelines (HTML) A guide explaining what a catering business is and the regulations that need to be followed.
Cockroach Control   (HTML) A guide explaining steps that can be taken to control the appearance of cockroaches in a facility.
Dishwasher Sanitizing (HTML) A guide explaining the proper methods of checking dishwasher sanitizer levels.
Farmers' Markets  A guide explaining how to participate in a Certified Farmers' Market.
Food Establishment Safety in a Disaster (HTML) A guide explaining the procedures food facilities should follow in the event of a major disaster or emergency.
Food Expiration Dates A document that discusses labeled food expiration dates and what they actually mean.
Food Facility Inspection Form (HTML) A guide explaining how to read a Riverside County food facility inspection form.
Food Facility Operator's Guide A guide explaining the Riverside County food inspection process.
Food Facility Operator's Guide (Español) Una guía que explica el proceso de inspección de alimentos del Condado de Riverside.
Food Facility Self Inspection List (Spanish) A guide explaining the items that DEH food inspectors will be looking at during their inspection of a food facility.
Food Manager Certification (HTML) A guide explaining the requirements for food manager certification.
Food Safety at Charitable Meal Programs A guide explaining methods of keeping the public safe when hosting a charitable meal.
Food Safety During Blackouts (Spanish) A guide explaining how facilities can ensure food safety when the electricity is out.
Food Temperature Control A guide explaining the proper methods of controlling food temperature.
Food Handler Certification A guide explaining what the food worker certification program is and how it is implemented in Riverside County. For more information or to obtain a food worker card please visit our food worker certification page.
Grading of Food Establishments A guide explaining the posting and grading of restaurants in the County. To view the latest restaurant grades please visit tour grading page.
HACCP Plans for Sushi Rice A guide explaining the proper method of including sushi rice in a HACCP plan.
Hand Washing   (HTML) A guide explaining the proper procedures for hand washing.
Hand Washing (Spanish)  Una guía explicando los procedimientos apropiados para el lavado de manos.
Hepatitis A Disinfection Guidelines A guide explaining the proper procedures to disinfect surfaces, prevent the spread of illness and when to report or exclude food handlers.
Host Facility Requirements A guide providing minimum Host Facility Requirements when hosting a Catering Operation
Hot and Cold Holding Temperatures A guide explaining the proper temperatures for holding hot and cold potentially hazardous foods.
Hotel / Motel Food Permitting A guide explaining the permitting process for food facilities at hotels and similar establishments.
How to Open a Fixed Food Facility in Riverside County  A guide explaining what steps are needed to open a food facility in this county. 
Ice, The Forgotten Food A guide explaining the requirements for manufacturing, handling, and service ice.
Illegal Food Vending A guide explaining the dangers of illegal vending and outlining the procedures for receiving an inspection and obtaining an operating permit.
Illegal Food Vending (Spanish) Una guía que explica los peligros de la venta ilegal y esboza los procedimientos para recibir una inspección y obtener un permiso de operación.
In-Place Sanitization A guide explaining the procedures for sanitizing equipment or utensils that are too large to move.
Inspection Report Access A guide explaining the posting placard seen in food facilities and the public's right to view inspection reports.
Kitchen Agreement Letter This guide explains what a kitchen agreement letter is and how to obtain one. It also provides other information needed for engaging in retail food sales in Riverside County.
Kitchen Incubator (SHARED KITCHEN) Agreement Packet This information packet is for individuals who will be using a permitted shared kitchen, designed for multiple users and not a retail restaurant.
Limited Retail Food Sales from a Private Home  A guide describing the eligibility requirements for selling NONPERISHABLE PREPACKAGED food from a private home.
Liquid Nitrogen in Food Products   The FDA has released a warning  of the potential for serious injury from food products prepared by adding liquid nitrogen at the point of sale and immediately before consumption.
Major Food Allergens Discusses the 8 major food allergens and symptoms of an allergic reaction as well as suggestions for retail food facilities to avoid cross-contact. 
Manual Sanitizing A guide explaining the proper cleaning and sanitizing techniques using a 3 compartment sink.
Menu Labeling  A guide listing the menu labeling requirements established by federal law, effective May 7, 2018.
Outdoor BBQs, Smokers, and Wood-Burning Ovens A guide explaining the procedures for operation of an outdoor BBQs, smokers, and wood-burning ovens.
Partially Hydrogenated Oils The federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has released its final determination that partially hydrogenated oils are not Generally Recognized as Safe and no longer allowed in any food beginning June 18, 2018.  Foods currently in commerce containing trans fats can still be used.  Retail food facilities should contact their distributor to verify food products do not contain trans fats before purchasing.  Please defer to this notice and the FDA for more guidance.
Pet Dogs in Outdoor Dining Areas A guide explaining the procedures that must be followed by a facility if dogs are allowed to accompany their owners in outdoor dining areas.
Plan Check & Permit Requirements A guide explaining the food facility plan checking requirements.
Rapid Cooling A guide explaining procedures that may be used to rapidly cool food products.
Retail Market Conversions for Fresh Produce A guide explaining procedures used to convert your retail food convenience store to sell fresh produce. 
Reduced Oxygen Packaging (ROP) A guide explaining what reduced oxygen packaging is and the requirements food facilities mush follow if it is to be conducted.
Service Animals in Food Facilities An FAQ providing guidance on allowing service animals into food facilities.  Here is a sign for you to post regarding service animals.  
Swap Meets (Spanish) A guide explaining food vending requirements that must be followed at swap meets.
Temporary Buffets A guide explaining temporary buffet and brunch requirements as well as frequently asked questions.
Time as a Control A guide explaining how to use time as a control for preventing bacterial growth.
Use and Calibration of Probe Thermometers A guide explaining the proper use and calibration technique of dial probe thermometers.
Vertical Broilers (English) A guide explaining the proper usage of vertical broilers and meat cones.
Vertical Broilers (Spanish) A guide explaining the proper usage of vertical broilers and meat cones. (Español)
Water Conservation  Tips for restaurant operators and employees to reduce water usage during the operation of a restaurant.
El Agua, Un Recurso Preciado (Water Conservation in Spanish)

Consejos para los operadores y empleados de restaurantes para reducir el uso de agua durante el funcionamiento de un restaurante.
Wild Mushrooms A guide explaining that wild mushrooms are an unapproved food source in the County.

 

Food Handler Exam

Document Description
Exam Study Guide (English) A guide book that may be used to study for the Riverside County Food Handler Exam.
Exam Study Guide (Spanish) A guide book that may be used to study for the Riverside County Food Handler Exam. (Español)

 

Food Plan Check

Document Description
Food Facility Plan Check Guide A general reference for submitting plans for the construction or remodel of a fixed food facility. Includes examples and sample forms.
Accepted Floor Materials A listing of currently approved flooring materials for food facilities.
Accepted Wall & Ceiling Materials A listing of currently approved wall & ceiling materials for food facilities.
Sneeze Guard Supplemental Form Guidelines for sneeze guards as they pertain to food facility plan check.
100% Pre-Packaged Facility Guidelines Guidelines for facilities that will only handle pre-packaged food.
Material Supplier List This is a listing of companies that supply approved materials for the construction of food facilities. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.

Foodborne Illness

Document Description
Common Food Poisonings A guide describing the most common food poisonings including, bacteria name, common food sources involved, signs, and symptoms.
E Coli and Ground Beef A guide for controlling E Coli growth and exposure.
Norovirus A guide defining Norovirus and describing how to control its spread.
Raw Oyster Warning A guide regarding bacteria found in oysters and proper preparation procedures for mitigating exposure.
Salmonella and Eggs A guide describing salmonella and the proper mitigation techniques regarding eggs .

 

Hazardous Materials

Document Description
Lists Available for Purchase A listing of the current hazardous materials informational lists that are available for purchase through the Hazardous Materials Management Branch.
What Your Fees Pay For A document describing what the HazMat permit fees pay for.
CUPA Compliance Manual A hazardous waste and materials compliance guide for small businesses. 

 

Aboveground Petroleum Storage (APSA)

Document Description
APSA Brochure A guide that explains the basic principles and requirements of the APSA program.
APSA Fact Sheet (CalEPA) A guide from the California Environmental Protection Agency that explains the background of the APSA program.
List of APSA Consultants A listing of consultants who can assist business with aboveground petroleum storage act compliance. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Tank Integrity Testers A listing of aboveground tank integrity testers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
Scope of CUPA Implementation (CalEPA) A guide from the California Environmental Protection Agency that explains additional APSA requirements.
SPCC Fact Sheet (CalEPA) A guide from the California Environmental Protection Agency that explains the background of the SPCC compliance.
Tier I APSA Training A step-by-step training course designed to assist facilities with the completion of a tier 1 SPCC template. This instruction course is hosted by the County of San Diego.

 

Business Plans (Disclosure)

Document Description
Bulk Liquid CO2 Handlers (Coming Soon) A guide describing permit applicability for facilities that store or otherwise handle liquefied carbon dioxide.
Business Plan FAQs A guide the answers frequently asked questions regarding the Business Plan program.
Cannabis Related Facilities Information regarding permits for cannabis related businesses.
Classification Level & Fee Schedule  A guide to help businesses determine their disclosure category based on the classification and quantity of hazardous materials stored onsite.
Common NFPA 704 Ratings A listing of the most common hazardous materials with their associated NFPA 704 ratings.
List of Business Plan Consultants A listing of consultants who can author business plans. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Compressed Gas Handlers A listing of vendors who handle compressed gas cylinders. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of HazMat Consultants A listing of consultants who can assist business with hazardous materials compliance. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of NFPA 704 Sign Vendors A listing of vendors who sell NFPA 704 signs. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
NFPA 704 Posting Guidelines A guide explaining compliance with the requirement to properly post an NFPA 704 sign.
Release Report Guidelines A guide to assist businesses with release reporting notification requirements.
Secondary Containment Guidelines A guide explaining compliance with the requirement to "maintain all hazardous materials to minimize the possibility of release."

 

Hazardous Waste Generator

Document Description
Aerosol Cans as Universal Waste A guidance document, issued by the Department of Toxic Substances Control, detailing the requirements for processing aerosol cans.
Household Hazardous Waste A listing of household hazardous waste event locations, dates, and times.
List of Aqueous Degreaser Suppliers A listing of vendors that sell water-based degreasing solvents. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Container Recyclers A listing of vendors who can assist with recycling hazardous waste containers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of CRT Recyclers A listing of cathode ray tube recyclers who can assist business with disposal. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Hazardous Waste Transporters A listing of registered hazardous waste transporters who can assist business with hazardous waste disposal. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Oil & Antifreeze Transporters A listing of waste oil and antifreeze transporters who can assist business with non-RCRA waste disposal. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Photo/X-Ray Waste Transporters A listing of hazardous waste transporters who can assist business with the disposal of photo chemicals and x-ray waste. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Refrigerant Recyclers A listing of refrigerant recyclers who can assist business with disposal. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Universal Waste Transporters A listing of universal waste transporters who can assist business with universal waste disposal. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
Manifest Fact Sheet A fact sheet issued by the California Department of Toxic Substances Control detailing the hazardous waste manifesting requirements.
Managing Retail Hazardous Waste A guidance document issued by the California CUPA Forum detailing methods for properly storing and disposing of retail hazardous waste.

Mercury Cleanup Guidelines (Broken Thermometers)

 A guide describing proper steps to be taken in the event of a small mercury release.
Non-Saleable Merchandise Guidelines (Retail Waste) A guidance document issued by the California CUPA Forum explaining compliance with hazardous waste regulations at retail/wholesale facilities.
Release Report Guidelines A guide to assist businesses with release reporting notification requirements.
Universal Waste Fact Sheet A guide issued by the CA Department of Toxic Substances Control that explains compliance with universal waste handling procedures.
Universal Waste Guidelines A guide explaining compliance with universal waste handling procedures.

 

Underground Storage Tanks

Document Description
Closure by Removal Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with closing an underground storage tank by removal.
Closure in Place Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with closing an underground storage tank in place.
UST Cold Start Guidelines  A guide to assist facilities with a cold start of an underground storage tank system  
UST Guidance Letter for Upgrades  A guide to assist facilities with dispenser, software and/or vapor recovery upgrades. 
Laboratory Analysis Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with the analysis of samples taken at a facility with underground storage tanks.
List of Certified Laboratories A listing of California certified laboratories that can complete sample analysis. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Consultants A listing of underground storage tank consultants that can assist facilities with UST compliance. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Secondary Containment (SB989) Testers A listing of underground storage tank secondary containment (SB989) testers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Tank Removers A listing of underground storage tank removers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Tank Testers A listing of underground storage tank testers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of UST Installers A listing of underground storage tank installers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
Plan Check Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with procedures for submitting plans for UST installations, repairs, modifications, upgrades, or removals.
Release Report Guidelines A guide to assist businesses with release reporting notification requirements.
Spill Container Testing Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with conducting spill container testing in Riverside County.
Temporary Closure Guidelines A guide to assist facilities with temporarily closing an underground storage tank.

 

Home Safety

Document Description
Disposal of Used Needles A guide describing the proper method of safely disposing of used needles and syringes at home.
Easter Egg Safety A guide describing how to properly handle Easter eggs so as to avoid foodborne illness.
Food Safety at Barbecues and Potlucks A guide offering tips on how to plan and prepare safe meals outdoors, whether it is at the park or in your own backyard.  
Food Safety at Potlucks A guide describing proper potluck food preparation and holding so as to avoid foodborne illness.
Food Temperature Control   (HTML) A guide describing proper food cooking and reheating temperatures.
General Food Safety Guidelines   (HTML) A guide describing general items that can be done in the home kitchen to control the spread and growth of bacteria.
Hand Washing   (HTML) A guide explaining the proper procedures for hand washing.
Mold Fact Sheet A guide explaining the dangers, detection, and abatement of mold in homes.
Produce Cleaning   (HTML) A guide describing methods of properly washing produce to reduce the spread of bacteria.
Turkey Safety A guide detailing proper methods of controlling .

 

Mobile Home Parks

Document Description
Mobile Home Park Requirements A guide document detailing the permit requirements for mobile home parks.

 

Safety During Emergencies

Document Description
Emergency Food Supply (HTML) A guide detailing how to properly store food for use during an emergency.
Food and Water Safety Before, During, and After Power Outages Information on how to keep food safe at home during a power outage.
Septic Tank Failure A guide explaining what to do in the event of a septic tank failure during extensive rains or flooding.
Sewage Disposal in an Emergency A guide explaining what can be done with sewage in an emergency situation.
Water Purification A guide explaining how water can be purified and stored in the event of an emergency.

 

Medical Waste

Document Description
Waste Management Plan Checklist (CDPH) A guide from the California Department of Public Health that explains the creation of a medical waste management plan.

 

Pools & Spas

Document Description
Water Preservation for Public Pools A guide to conserving water in the operation of a swimming pools in response to severe drought conditions.

Metodos de preservacion de agua (Water Preservation for Public Pools in Spanish)

 Metodos de preservacion de agua para instalaciones con pescinas publicas durante las condiciones sequia.
Fecal Accidents in Pools A guide detailing actions that must be taken in the event of a fecal accident at a public swimming pool, spa, or other bathing place.
Pool Cover Guidelines A guide detailing various types of pool covers and offering safety suggestions for their use at public pools.
Self Inspection Checklist An inspection checklist, designed to be used by facility operators, to assist with compliance.
Pool Chemistry Maintenance A guide regarding the maintenance of proper chemistry in swimming pools, spas, and other recreational water.
2012 Title 24 Pool Code Changes  A notice of Important changes to the California Building Code related to public and semi-public swimming pools.
2012 Summary of Changes to Title 24 A side by side comparison of the new and old Title 24 pool code effective 2012
2015 Summary of Changes to Title 22 A summary of changes to the pool code that take effect January 2015 
2015 Title 22 Complete Changes A side by side comparison of the new and old Title 22 pool code effective 2015
CDPH Public Swimming Pool Requirements Information from the California Department of Public Health regarding public swimming pools 
Drowning Prevention Tips  Information on how to prevent children from accidentally drowning 
Hot Tub Disinfection Procedures Informational guide to help in the event of Legionnaires case in a hot tub
How to Prevent Legionnaires' Disease in a Pool, Spa, or Water Feature Information on pool/spa/water feature maintenance to help prevent the growth of Legionella and what Legionnaires' Disease is.

 

Pool & Spa Plan Check

Document Description
Pool Construction Guide  A general guide for submitting plans for the construction of a public or semi-public pool or spa.
Pool Enclosure Requirements A general guide for pool & spa enclosures as taken from California Health and Safety Code.
Pool Code  This document contains excerpts of California Health and Safety Code, California Code of Regulations, California Building Code, and California Electrical Code relating to pools and spas. Published by CAEHA.

 

Septic & Sewer Systems

Document Description
Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) This document provides information regarding the minimum requirements for installation, performance, and maintenance of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) in Riverside County.
Technical Guidance Manual - see LAMP The Riverside County Local Agency Management Program (LAMP) has been approved. For information on the design and installation of Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS) in Riverside County, please refer to the LAMP.
Land Use Application Guidelines  Guidelines on how to properly fill out the Land Use Application. See Forms Library to obtain Land Use Application. 
List of C-42 State Licensed Plumbers A listing of California licensed C-42 plumbers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Soils Percolation Engineers A listing of soils percolation engineers. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
Homeowner's Guide to Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems General information on septic system maintenance.
Commonly Used Fees for the Land Use and Water Resources Program  Commonly used fees for the Land Use and Water Resources programs.   
Graywater Systems Information on graywater systems.
Sistemas de Aguas Grises (Graywater Systems in Spanish)  Informacion sobre sistemas de aguas grises.  
HCD Emergency Graywater Regulations Graywater regulations from the Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD).

 

Solid Waste

Document Description
 (coming soon) 

 

Tobacco Program

Document Description
Tobacco Control Laws (CDPH) A guide detailing the retail tobacco permitting requirements.
Tobacco Permitting A guide detailing the retail tobacco permitting requirements.
Tobacco Permitting (Spanish) Una guia que detalla los requisitos de permisos de tabaco al por menor
Tobacco Decoy Flyer Information about participating in our Tobacco Retail Youth Decoy Program.

 

Vector Control

Document Description
Africanized Honey Bee Guidelines A guide to assist with identification of Africanized honey bees and general precautions that should be taken.
Green Pool Guidelines (For Homeowners & Renters) A guide to assist with the identification of green pools and notification to this department.
Green Pool Guidelines (For Realtors) A guide to assist with the identification of green pools and notification to this department.
Hantavirus Guidelines A guide to assist with the identification of Hantavirus vectors, signs and symptoms of exposure, and general precautions that should be taken.
Lyme Disease Guidelines A guide to assist with the identification of Lyme Disease vectors, signs and symptoms of exposure, and general precautions that should be taken.
Mosquitoes A guide describing the hazards of mosquitoes and steps the general public can take to protect against them.
Mosquitoes and Mosquito-Borne Diseases A guide describing mosquitoes, diseases associated with mosquitoes, and how to control for mosquitoes.  
Mosquito Control Best Management Practices(CDPH) A guidebook published by the California Department of Public Health that contains best management practices for the control of mosquitoes.
Protect Yourself from Plague (HTML) Information on the different forms of plague, how it is transmitted and how to protect yourself.
Rodent Prevention Guide A guidebook published by this department to help residents identify and prevent potential rodent problems.
Rodent Prevention & Control Poster A pamphlet to assist with the prevention and control of the rat population in and around a home or business.
Reptile Related Salmonella Guidelines A guide to assist people who handle reptiles with steps necessary to prevent Salmonella infections.
West Nile Virus Brochure (CDPH) A brochure published by the California Department of Public Health that condenses the best management practices for the control of West Nile Virus.
West Nile Virus Guidelines A guide to assist with the identification of West Nile Virus vectors, signs and symptoms of exposure, and general precautions that should be taken.

 

Water Systems

Document Description
List of Backflow Device Testers A listing of all entities that have been certified to provide backflow device testing in the County of Riverside. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
List of Well Drillers A listing of all entities that have been certified to provide well drilling services within the County of Riverside. This listing is not all inclusive and inclusion should not be construed as endorsement by the County of Riverside.
Commonly Used Fees for the Land Use and Water Resources Program  Commonly used fees for the Land Use and Water Resources programs.