Vermont Department of Health (Environmental Health Division) – Burlington, VT

Environmental Health Division

Protecting Health Through Environmental Safety

The Environmental Health Division, operating under the Vermont Department of Health, is the primary state authority responsible for assessing and managing health risks associated with environmental factors. Located at 108 Cherry Street in downtown Burlington, this division applies scientific expertise and regulatory enforcement to prevent illness and injury caused by natural and human-made hazards. Its mandate covers a wide spectrum of public health concerns, including the monitoring of safe drinking water, the prevention of lead poisoning in children, and the regulation of food and lodging establishments. By implementing rigorous standards and conducting regular inspections, the division ensures that the spaces where Vermonters live, work, and play are safe and sanitary.

Regulatory Programs and Licensing

A core function of the Environmental Health Division is the licensing and inspection of public facilities. The Food and Lodging Program oversees restaurants, hotels, and temporary food vendors to prevent foodborne outbreaks. The division also manages the Asbestos and Lead Regulatory Program, which certifies abatement professionals and enforces safety rules during construction and renovation projects to prevent exposure to toxic materials. Additionally, the Radiological and Toxicological Sciences program monitors radiation levels and assesses chemical risks, providing critical data to policy makers and the public. The division also supports Town Health Officers across the state, providing them with training and legal guidance to address local nuisance and health issues.

Healthy Homes and Communities

Beyond regulation, the division actively promotes ‘Healthy Homes’ initiatives, offering resources on radon testing, mold prevention, and indoor air quality. It serves as a vital information hub for residents concerned about environmental contaminants, offering guidance on private well testing and cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms in Lake Champlain. The Burlington office provides administrative support and acts as a point of contact for submitting permit applications, paying license fees, and reporting public health complaints. Through its comprehensive approach, the Environmental Health Division plays an indispensable role in safeguarding Vermont’s public health infrastructure.