ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

(217) 532-2001

FOOD SANITATION PROGRAM – All restaurants, grocery stores and cafeterias require a permit and are inspected according to the State Food Sanitation Code in conjunction with an ordinance passed by the Montgomery County Board. The department issues food permits for temporary food service occasions and food stands. The department may revoke a food permit for the closure of any facility that has been the source of a food born illness or that refuses to meet the requirements of the local ordinance and the Illinois Department of Public Health food service code. The department will be offering Food Service Sanitation Certification courses on the basis of demand.

PRIVATE SEWAGE PROGRAM – The department administers and enforces the Private Sewage Disposal Program brought forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health in conjunction with the county ordinance for private sewage disposal. All new and renovated private sewage disposal systems require a permit to be issued to the owner and licensed septic installer prior to construction. Department personnel shall evaluate, approve and inspect the systems.

PRIVATE WATER PROGRAM – The department requires and issues a permit for the drilling of new water wells and the sealing of abandoned wells and shall visit such sites for inspection. Water test kits are provided free of charge for the testing of private water wells. The samples are sent to the state lab in Springfield. There is no lab fee when new wells are being tested, when there is an infant living in the home or for medical reasons. The department provides consultation or assistance with samples upon request.

NUISANCE CONTROL – In 1979 the Montgomery County Board passed a Nuisance Ordinance. Nuisance complaints are documented and shall be followed by actions determined by the nature and severity of the immediate threat to public health within the jurisdiction of the enforcement capabilities of the department.

INSECT AND RODENT CONTROL – The department shall advise individuals and municipalities on the proper methods of rodent and insect abatement. The department is currently applying for a grant that would provide a more aggressive mosquito abatement program for Montgomery County.

TANNING FACILITY PROGRAM – Local health department personnel inspect all tanning facilities permitted by the Illinois Department of Public Health.

Each program has a code and ordinance that have been approved for regulation

in order to promote the health and safety of the residents of Montgomery County.