The first step is to contact the local county office of the Arkansas Department of Health for specific regulations. Plans for fish cleaning facilities must be certified, and the premises will have to be inspected before the required food service permit is issued. It is essential to meet standards before beginning to clean fish. Table 1 lists typical requirements for a fish cleaning facility. Check with the county Sanitarian for specific or new requirements.
Food safety is an important issue with the public.
To attract and retain customers, they must be convinced that the fish dressed for them is clean and safe to eat. A clean and well-lit location for dressing fish must be created and maintained. Lights must be shielded. The floor should have a drain, and the floor and walls should be of smooth materials, easy to clean and disinfect. The water supply and septic or sewage system servicing the cleaning area must be approved.