When Do You Need a Temporary Food Permit?

You must obtain a TFP if all the following apply:

• The event takes place on the University of Missouri campus
• The event is:
  • Sponsored by an MU department, group, or student organization.
  • Open to the public or MU community (students, faculty, staff).
  • Advertised via public or campus-wide channels (e.g., posters, social media, emails).
  • Hosted by a non-MU group but attended by MU community members.

When Is a TFP Not Required?

You do not need a TFP if:

• You are using an on-campus food provider or a Qualified Caterer listed here, and you are not preparing, cooking, or serving additional food.
• The event is off campus.
• The event is private and invitation-only (e.g., wedding, birthday, religious event) and not open to the campus community.
• You’re only serving commercially pre-packaged, non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods (e.g., chips, candy, packaged cookies).
• You’re only serving coffee, tea, water, or sealed bottled/canned drinks.
• You’re only serving whole, uncut fruits and vegetables.
• You’re only serving individually packaged frozen treats (e.g., ice cream bars or popsicles in original packaging).

Even if a permit is not required for your event, please follow our temporary food permit guidelines for safe food handling.  

Why might a TFP be denied?
A TFP will be denied, if your food source doesn’t meet MU's safety standards. Contact the MU Sanitarian for alternative options.

What if my application is denied?
Resubmit with an approved food source. The reason for denial will be provided.

Do I need a TFP if I’m using a qualified caterer or Campus Dining?
No.

Do I need a TFP for a private event (e.g., wedding) on campus?
No, as long as it’s invitation-only and not open to the campus community.

Haven’t heard back about your application?
Check EHSA for questions that need your response to move forward.

When is a food handler card required?
If you are cooking, preparing, or serving time/temperature control safety foods and your event is open to the public or campus community.

How to Apply

For MU Employees:

1. Apply at least 7 business days in advance.
2. Read the Temporary Food Permit Guidelines.
3. Log in to EHS Assistant with your Pawprint.
4. Follow these steps:
5. Click EHS Assessment
   1. Choose Browse New Forms
   2. Select Temporary Food Permit
   3. Complete all required fields (include food service times)
   4. Click Save as Complete
   5. You’ll get an automatic email confirmation. If more info is needed, you’ll be contacted by muehssanitarian@missouri.edu.
   6. Once approved, your permit will be emailed.
      Click Here to Login to EHS Assistant

For Non-Mizzou Individuals or Organizations:

Submit the Temporary Food Permit Request for Non-Mizzou Groups at least 7 business days in advance. 

Read the Temporary Food Permit Guidelines. 

• The MU Sanitarian will contact you with approval, denial, or a request for more information.