The state Department of Health has issued a violation notice and $20,000 fine against Kona Surf Partners LLC, dba Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa at Keauhou Bay, for operating its Da Dog House food establishment without a valid health permit. The resort has 20 days to request a hearing to contest the notice.

On Jan. 12 a DOH health inspector observed the Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa selling prepared food at Da Dog House without a valid food establishment permit by the DOH as required by state law. In addition, the resort posted a copy of its Convention Center food establishment permit at the site. It was determined the establishment had been operating illegally since Dec. 24.

“One of the most serious violations of the food safety code is operating without a valid permit,” said Peter Oshiro, environmental health program manager.

JoAnn Lenhardt, director of operations at the resort, attributed not having a permit to an administrative error.

“It was recently brought to our attention that our new food service outlet was opened without a permit,” she said. “This was due to an administrative error at the hotel. We are sorry this important step was overlooked by our team. We have been working closely with the state Department of Health to take the necessary steps to resolve the issue and reopen the outlet soon.”