Seattle Food Service Pest Control Compliance Checklist

Seattle Local Health Code Pest Management Requirements

Seattle food service facilities must comply with Washington State Food Code (WAC 246-215) and local amendments enforced by Public Health – Seattle & King County. All facilities must implement an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program that includes prevention, monitoring, and control measures. Pest management records must be maintained and available for inspection, including documentation of any pest activity, treatments applied, and corrective actions taken. Your facility must have evidence of a professional pest control contract if chemical treatments are used, though the health department encourages mechanical and exclusion-based methods first.

Critical Inspection Items & Violation Triggers

Inspectors assess exterior and interior conditions for signs of rodents, insects, and other pests. Evidence of pest harborage—such as gaps around pipes, cracks in walls, improperly sealed doors, or stored materials touching floors—are documented violations. Active pest droppings, dead insects in food prep areas, or visible pest activity result in critical violations that can halt operations immediately. Improper food storage (items directly on floors), inadequate cleaning schedules, and failure to seal entry points are commonly cited. Inspectors verify that grease traps, dumpsters, and loading dock areas are sealed and maintained to exclude pests, and that all staff can describe the facility's IPM plan.

IPM Program Best Practices & Documentation

Your IPM program should include written protocols for cleaning schedules, waste management, and staff training on pest prevention. Implement daily monitoring such as inspecting storage areas, checking for droppings or damage, and sealing spills immediately. Maintain a pest activity log documenting any sightings, treatment dates, pesticide products used, application areas, and results. Schedule regular pest control inspections (typically monthly) and keep all service reports on-site for health inspector review. Ensure all staff understand their role in pest prevention, from proper food storage to reporting pest activity immediately to management.

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