STATE OF MARYLAND
DHMH
Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
6 Saint Paul Street, Suite 1301 • Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Parris N. Glendening, Governor — Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Lt. Governor — Georges C. Benjamin, M.D., SecretaryOffice of Food Protection and Consumer Health Services
Alan L. Taylor, R.S., Director
April 16, 2002
Dear Mr. DiFonzo:
Thank you for your recent letter of inquiry regarding requirements for footwear in public establishments. This Office regulates food establishments in Maryland. The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) 10.15.03 "Food Service Facilities" does not contain requirements pertaining to patron clothing including footwear. As a matter of policy, many restaurants require patrons to wear shirts and shoes, but this is not a Department requirement.
Since we do not regulate libraries or schools, I can not answer your question concerning clothing requirements in these facilities.
I hope this information is useful, and should you have further questions, please contact the Division of Food Control at (410) 767-8400.
Sincerely,
(signed)
Alan L. Taylor, Director
Office of Food Protection and
Consumer Health Servicescc: I. Arthur Senkel, Jr.
410-767-8440 • Fax 410-333-8931
Toll Free 1-877-4MD-DHMH • TTY for Disabled - Maryland Relay Service 1-800-735-2258
Web Site: www.dhmh.state.md.us