SALT LAKE CITY — Health officials in Salt Lake County are urging residents to be cautious when buying food from temporary or “pop-up” eateries that may be operating without the proper permits.

In an advisory issued Tuesday, the Salt Lake County Health Department said inspectors have seen a rise in unlicensed mobile and pop-up food vendors across the area. Officials reminded the public to always look for a visible permit before purchasing any food.

“Food vendors without a permit haven’t been inspected and may not follow essential food safety practices like regular hand washing or keeping food at safe temperatures,” said Andrea Gamble, food protection supervisor with the county’s Food Protection Bureau.

Gamble noted that operating without a valid permit means there’s no oversight to ensure safe handling, cleanliness, or temperature control — all of which are vital to preventing foodborne illnesses.

Officials also clarified that each food business, including temporary or after-hours pop-ups, must hold its own individual permit. Sharing or borrowing another establishment’s permit — even if the same kitchen is used at different times — is strictly prohibited.

“Employees of another business that happens to be using the same space at different hours may not be as vigilant about food safety as the employees of the business that actually holds the permit,” Gamble added.

The Health Department is encouraging residents to verify a vendor’s credentials before ordering food and to report any unlicensed operations they encounter.

Instructions on how to apply for a food service permit and how to report unpermitted vendors are available on the county’s official website.

As street and mobile food culture continues to grow in popularity, county officials emphasize that consumer safety must remain the top priority — and that permits exist to protect both the public and legitimate businesses operating by the rules.