The Board of Health received a briefing in January 2025 regarding unplumbed espresso stands (SR 25-003). The briefing outlined how on March 1, 2022, revisions to the Washington State Retail Food Code (chapter 246-215 WAC) went into effect, including the repeal of WAC 246-215-09180, which had allowed unplumbed espresso stands to meet the requirements necessary to obtain an operating permit. The repeal resulted in over 70 of these facilities in Snohomish County falling out of compliance with the updated food code. The Health Department has been working to address concerns from these affected permit holders.
The food safety program will now require all unplumbed espresso stands to apply for a variance from the current version of the Washington State Retail Food Code, specifically plumbing requirements. A variance is a written authorization issued by the Health Department that allows for modifications or waivers of one or more requirements, provided the alternative plan proposed by the applicant does not pose a health hazard or nuisance.
To capture these changes, Ordinance BOH25-02 is intended to reorganize Title 3: Food Safety. It introduces new sections that clarify its intent, enhance understanding, and set the stage for future code expansions. Another key addition is a new definition section, which will define "unplumbed espresso stands." These stands are a type of food establishment not currently defined in the Washington State Retail Food Code. They are characterized as a food establishment operating in a movable building or structure, that lack permanent plumbing, and offer a limited menu.