Environmental Services

Program Overview


The Dade County Health Department provides a broad spectrum of environmental services. This office inspects facilities to determine compliance with applicable codes. 


Food service operations (restaurants, grocery stores, schools, senior centers, food processors, fairs), and lodging facilities that have 5 or more units are all inspected by our environmental services staff.


This Office Provides the Following Services...


  • Inspect and regulate food establishments, food processors, and schools.
  • Click here for a list of Restaurant, schools and food truck inspections. 
  • Investigate complaints dealing with food establishments
  • Investigate food recalls
  • Investigate foodborne illness and communicable diseases in conjunction with epidemiology staff
  • Water testing
  • Septic and sewer regulations and permits.



Environmental Specialists look at food safety, hand-washing, basic sanitation, safety, and environmental concerns. Click here to view Dade County Food Ordinance


Emergency Management Planning


Our office is also involved in Emergency Management Planning and committed to assisting our citizens recover in the event of a county emergency. 


Whether your concern is rabies, West Nile virus, mad cow disease, or bio-terrorism, please feel free to contact this office at 417-637-2345.

Office Hours

To speak with our Environmental Public Health Specialist call 417-637-2345 or fax 417-637-2507.

Water Testing


This office provides water testing for bacteria. These test are performed at this office. Technical assistance is provided for treatment methods. Come by and get a water sample kit and submit it for testing, Monday through Thursday only. The health department can also draw a sample from your residence for a fee, please call to get a cost for that service.


On-Site Sewage Laws & Regulations

This office provides technical assistance to property owners concerning on-site sewage disposal systems.


Forms Available


Restaurant Inspections