Environmental Health

A human’s first line of defense against disease is environmental management.

Environmental Health is responsible for the promotion and enhancement of public health as it relates to the environmental needs of our community. We strive to work with individuals, businesses, and the community through education, regulation, permitting, and when necessary, enforcement to promote a healthy and safe environment for all.

Environmental Health’s Core Functions

  • Prevent epidemics and the spread of disease
  • Protect against environmental hazards
  • Prevent injuries
  • Promote and encourage healthy behaviors
  • Respond to disasters and assist communities in recovery

Please visit each county Environmental Health page for specific county applications and requirements.

For a complete list of Environmental Health Forms, please click the link below.
Environmental Health Forms – West Central Health District


ServSafe®  Food Protection Manager Certification Course
The Columbus Department of Public Health sponsors a 2-Day ServSafe®  Food Protection Manager Certification Course. Please check back for the next course date, and to register.

The National Restaurant Association allows an examinee to take the Serve Safe Food Protection Manager Exam twice within a 30-day period, if necessary.  If three attempts are required, the examinee must wait at least 60 days from their last attempt.  No more than four attempts are allowed in a 12-month period. 

Please contact the Environmental Health Office at the Columbus Department of Public Health at 706-321-6170 if you have questions regarding the ServSafe® Program. ServSafe®  is a registered trademark of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, and used under license by National Restaurant Association Solutions, LLC.

Free ServSafe® Courses 

Note:  American National Standards Institute (ANSI) food safety certification approved exams can also be found on the ANSI website.

For additional information, visit GDPH Food Service Rules and Regulations.


WCHD Request For Open Records Form