Effective May 1, 2018, all events taking place in Independence must be approved for a Special Event Permit unless approved prior to May 1 or governed by a separate agreement approved by the City Council. The application must be received 45 days prior to the event.
Bake Sales operated by a non-profit organization that is selling only foods that do not require time or temperature control do not need a Temporary Event Health Permit. However, a sign indicating that the products were prepared in a home kitchen that is not permitted by the City of Independence Health Department should be posted. The Health Department should also be notified of any Bake Sales at 816-325-7803.
Apply for a Temporary Event Health Permit online. Applications must be received at least five business days prior to the scheduled event. The fee for all Temporary Event Health Permits is $50. Application received less then five business days prior to the scheduled event will have to pay a $25 late fee.
Applications can also be processed in person, by mail or by fax to 816-7770. Download the Temporary Event Health Permit. Please provide a copy of your active City business license or a non-profit exemption letter from the City’s Business Licensing Division.
Exception: Certain large organized events may be exempt from acquiring a license/exemption. Check with the event coordinator for more information.
An inspector will meet you at the event site to conduct a pre-opening inspection 30 minutes prior to the start of the event. Please, have your event completely set-up and ready to pass inspection. Pending a passing inspection, the Temporary Event Health Permit will be issued on-site. No food preparation or distribution should be started before the inspection has been completed. For questions, please call 816-325-7803 Monday through Friday 8am - 5pm.
Guidelines for a Temporary Event