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Ask a Sanitarian Q&A

Ask a Sanitarian question and answer

Ask a Sanitarian

Whether it’s about food safety, well water, or general environmental health, we’re here to help! Your question could be featured on this Q&A page.

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Newsletters

March 2026 - Protecting Your Drinking Water: Why Private Well Testing Matters

February 2026 - Illness in Food Establishments, Protecting the Public's Health

January 2026 - Radon: An Invisible Risk in Our Homes

October 2025 - Drowning Prevention Why It Matters for Pool Operators

Food, Pool, and Lodging Establishment Licensing Q&A

My restaurant had a power outage, flooding, fire, or sewage backup. Do I need to notify my health inspector?

Yes. You must notify your health inspector immediately if your restaurant experiences any of these events. These situations can pose serious health risks and may require a temporary closure or inspection before reopening.

https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/foodsafety/emergency/index.html

What is the hospitality fee from MDH

The statewide hospitality fee has been collected from all food, beverage and lodging establishments in Minnesota since 2005. The fee funds statewide food, beverage and lodging program development activities.

The law requires the Minnesota Department of Health to collect a $40 fee each year from every food, beverage and lodging establishment in the state.

MDH Statewide Hospitality Fee

Private/Vacation Home Rentals Q&A

What do I need to do to rent out my home?

Before renting out your home, you need to apply for a rental license, ensure your property meets safety and health requirements, and complete necessary inspections. Check out this page: https://horizonphmn.gov/program/private-vacation-home-rentals/

When should I renew my rental license?

Rental licenses need to be renewed annually. Renewal paperwork is due December 1st each year.

Why is well water testing required before renting out my home?

Well water must be tested to ensure it’s safe for drinking and daily use. Testing helps protect tenants from harmful contaminants and is a legal requirement for rental properties that use private wells.

Who should I contact about my septic system and rental requirements?

Contact your local environmental services department for guidance on septic system inspections, compliance standards, and what’s needed to rent out a home with a septic system. This would be Pope County or Douglas County Land and Resources.

Main Office
809 Elm Street Suite 1200
Alexandria, MN 56308

800.450.4177 | 320.763.6018 phone
320.763.4127 | 888.229.2347 fax

info@horizonphmn.gov

Public Service Hours

Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
(By appointment after 4:00 p.m.)

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