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Closures or "Permit Suspensions" are performed in response to Imminent Health Hazards present in a food facility that pose a serious health hazard if not immediately corrected. Such Imminent Health Hazards include, but are not limited to:

Vermin (cockroaches, rats, mice) in critical food areas
Sewage overflow
No water available
Lack of "Warm" (100 F or greater) water for adequate handwashing or ware washing
Lack of power
No operable restrooms
Fire or other disaster
Ongoing possible foodborne illness

A permit may also be suspended due to serious or repeat violations, or for interference in the performance of the health inspector.

The main purpose of closures is to safeguard the health and safety of the public. A closure allows the facility to concentrate their efforts toward eliminating the reason for closure. Whether it is an Inspector Initiated Closure or an Owner Initiated Closure, a representative of Environmental Health will always verify that the reason for the closure has been corrected prior to reopening the food facility.