The Christian County Health Department (CCHD) would like to remind food vendors planning to serve at this year's Christian County Ag Fair to make sure they have the proper permits in place before the event begins.

The CCHD says anyone preparing or selling food to the public during the fair must obtain a temporary food permit. The permits help ensure vendors are following food safety regulations and also help protect fair goers from foodborne illnesses.

Health officials are encouraging vendors to submit their applications as soon as possible. To avoid paying additional fees, completed permit applications must be received by July 16th. Applications submitted after that deadline will face an added late fee. Permit applications and food safety requirements can be found at cchdil.org.

Anyone with questions about the permitting process is encouraged to contact the Christian County Health Department at 217-824-4113.

The Health Department also reminds vendors that permit applications cannot be processed unless all required sections are completed, supporting documents are included, and payment is submitted. Incomplete applications could delay approval and potentially impact a vendor's ability to operate during the fair.

With the Christian County Ag Fair quickly approaching, officials say now is the time for vendors to ensure all paperwork is in order so they can focus on serving fair goers safely during one of the county's biggest summer events. 

Further information on the Christian County Ag Fair can be found at christiancountyfair.com.