Environmental Health

The mission of Environmental Health Services is to safeguard health, and protect the environment through the practice of modern environmental health sciences, technology, rules, public education and above all dedication to the public trust.

Environmental Health Services carries out this mission through both mandated and non- mandated services. Mandated services include the on-site wastewater (septic systems), food and lodging, and childhood lead prevention and investigation programs. The staff of the Environmental Health Division is charged with enforcing North Carolina laws and rules while performing these mandated programs. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources provides technical guidance and delegation of authority.

• Permitting, inspection, and approval of septic tank systems
• Permitting, inspection and grading of all regulated food and lodging establishments. Establishments that are regulated include:
  • restaurants
  • motels/hotels
  • food stands
  • day care centers
  • swimming pools
  • tattoo parlors
    

    You may check the inspection grades for these facilities
    on the Digital Health Department website.
    
    

• Investigation of food poisoning outbreaks
• Investigations concerning elevated blood lead levels in children
• Investigation of mosquito, rat, and other public health nuisance complaints
• Water sampling and testing
• Food safety and child daycare sanitation classes
• Free language assistance

Monday - Friday:
8:00am - 5:00pm

Most services require an application. Applications are taken primarily by visiting the Environmental Health Services Division but can also be faxed or mailed.

You will need to have certain types of information to submit an application or service request depending on the service requested. It is advised that you contact the Environmental Health Division to inquire about what information may be needed prior to visiting the office.

• Application for Septic and Well
• Instructions
• Application
• Site Plan
  
• Existing System Request Form
• Existing System Inspection Application
• Water Supply Analysis
• Temporary Food Establishment Application
  • Application Form
  • State Rules Regulating Food Establishments

Fees vary according to the type of services requested. Fees can be paid by cash, check or credit card. All fees must be paid at the time of the service request.

• On-site Fee Schedule

(828) 250-6900

(828) 250-6902 (FAX)

For a complete listing of Inspection Grades services, please visit the
Digital Health Department.

For a listing of county-wide programs & services offered by Buncombe County Government, please visit our Services section.