Food Service Licensing

Food Licensing in Exeter: Ensuring Safe Food for Our Community

The Exeter Health Department is responsible for licensing and inspecting all food establishments operating within the Town of Exeter. This includes restaurants, food trucks, caterers, convenience stores, temporary food vendors, and homestead-based operations.

Food licensing is vital to public health—it ensures that food is prepared, stored, and served in a clean and safe environment. Our department enforces health and safety standards based on the 2022 FDA Food Code and applicable local ordinances to help prevent foodborne illness and protect the well-being of residents and visitors alike.

Whether you're a new business owner, a mobile food vendor, or renewing your annual license, this page provides the information and tools you need to stay compliant. We are committed to supporting food service operators through education, clear guidance, and timely inspections.

1. Year-Long Food Licenses (Permanent Establishments & Mobile Vendors)

• These are required for continuously operating restaurants, cafes, food trucks, convenience stores, and other food establishments.
• Renew Annually: Licenses must be renewed each year before expiration.
  • Food Service Plan Review - must be completed before opening its doors to the public.
  • Application for Annual Food Service License - Completed each year.
  • License Fee - fees may vary based on your class of licensure.
• Inspections Required: Routine health inspections are part of the renewal process.
• Changes? Notify Us: Report changes in ownership, menu, or layout to avoid violations.

2. Temporary Event Food Permits (Short-Term & Special Events)

• If you’re serving food at a festival, market, fundraiser, or pop-up, you need a temporary food permit.
• Apply At Least 10 Days in Advance: Include your menu, equipment list, and food sources.
  • Temporary Event - Vendor Application Form
• Separate Permit for Each Event: Even recurring vendors must apply per event.

*Event Coordinators must also complete an event application. 

3. Homestead Food Operations (Residential, Low-Risk Foods)

• Homestead operators can prepare certain low-risk foods from home under New Hampshire's homestead exemption.
• Register with the State: You must be approved through the NH Department of Health & Human Services.
• Label Properly: Products must be clearly labeled with required disclosures.
• Limited Scope: Only approved, shelf-stable foods allowed (no meat, dairy, or TCS foods).
• Local Check-In Encouraged: Let the Health Department know you're operating so we can assist and ensure compliance.

*Reminder: Regardless of category, all operators must follow safe food handling practices aligned with the 2022 FDA Food Code, Town of Exeter Ordinance Chapter 12, and may be subject to inspections at random.