The state health department has fined the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay on Hawaii island $20,000 for operating “Da Dog House” as a food establishment without a valid permit.

A notice of violation and order was filed against Kona Surf Partners LLC dba Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay at 78-128 Ehukai St. The company has 20 days to request a hearing to contest the notice.

On Jan. 12., a state health inspector observed the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa selling prepared food at its “Da Dog House” food establishment. At the time, “Da Dog House” did not possess a valid food establishment permit issued by the health department as required by state law.

In addition, the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa posted a copy of its Convention Center food establishment permit at the “Da Dog House” site, according to the health department, which said it determined the establishment had been operating illegally since Dec. 24, 2017.

“One of the most serious violations of the food safety code is operating without a valid permit,” said Peter Oshiro, environmental health program manager, in a press release. “The permit process initiates the regular review and inspection of a food establishment to ensure compliance with basic health and safety requirements that provide standard protection against food illness.

The facility in question was operating without the requisite infrastructure needed to safely serve food which includes basic plumbing to allow employees to wash their hands, according to Oshiro.

More information on the health department’s rules and food safety program, as well as online inspection reports for Hawaii restaurants, are available at this link.