Environmental Services

The Texas County Health Department provides a broad spectrum of environmental services. This office conducts inspection of facilities to determine compliance with applicable codes. Food service operations (restaurants, grocery stores, schools, senior centers, food processors) are inspected for compliance with the 1999 Missouri Food Code 19 CSR 20-1.025 Sanitation of Food Establishments. Lodging facilities that have 5 or more units are required to be inspected and licensed. These operations are inspected under 19 CSR 20-3.050 "Sanitation & Safety Standards for Lodging Establishments". Child Care facilities (daycare centers, group homes & family homes) are required to be inspected & licensed under Chapter 210 RSMo 1993, code section 19 CSR 40-60.

This office provides technical assistance to property owners concerning on-site sewage disposal systems. Permits are issued for appropriate single family homes & commercial facilities that need to install or perform major renovations to an existing on-site sewage disposal system. Sewage complaints are investigated and construction permits are issued under RSMo 701.025.

Water testing for bacteria & mineral analysis are conducted on a routine basis for home- owners and businesses. This office can test for chemicals, pesticides, heavy metals, etc. when a need is demonstrated. These tests are performed at the state laboratory in Jefferson City . Technical assistance is provided as to treatment systems and well construction requirements.

The Texas County Health Department is 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, indoor air quality or bio-terrorism, please feel free to contact this office at 417-967-4131.