Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen Facilities

 Published: November 12, 2025

Kitchen Facility FAQs

Reserving a kitchen facility at a Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) site can be one of the more intimidating types of facility requests we receive. From understanding staffing requirements and the additional rooms needed to solidify the booking, to have a clear picture of which equipment is available and what the expectations are for user groups. We understand it can feel a bit overwhelming and like there is a lack of clear direction with theses types of requests. 

To help facilitate these room uses, the Community Use of Public Facilities (CUPF) team has created the FAQ section below. Our goal is to take the guesswork out of the process and make it as smooth and stress-fress as possible.

If you do not see your question listed or need additional information, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office—we are happy to help! 

What type of equipment can be used in the Kitchen?

The kitchen facilities at MCPS locations are designated as warming kitchens for user groups. Active cooking within kitchen spaces is not permitted. 

Permitted equipment and use include:

• Steam tables and warmers
• Sinks and ice makers
• Refrigerators (use may be allowed if adequate space is available for your items)

Not available:

• Stoves or stovetops
• Hot water makers

All food and beverages must be brought in at the temperature they are meant to be served (hot or cold).

If you plan to serve hot drinks as tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, please bring them in insulated containers that maintain the proper serving temperature (e.g., coffee carrier boxes provided by major coffee chains).

Kitchen Use is listed as needing additional staff- is that included in the reservation fee?

Use of an MCPS kitchen facility requires that an MCPS kitchen staff member be present for the duration of your reservation. The cost of this staff member is included in the hourly fee charged for the use of space. However, additional cleaning may be required and, if necessary, result in additional staffing charges. 

The assigned kitchen staff member will:

• Ensure that the necessary equipment is available and ready for use upon your group's arrival.
• Remain on site to provide oversight and limited assistance related to the safe use of equipment.
• Verify that all equipment is in good condition at the conclusion of use.
• Ensure that all equipment is turned off, cleaned, sanitized, and secured, and that the kitchen is ready for food preparation on the next school day.

Please note: MCPS kitchen staff are not available to cook, warm, or otherwise prepare food for serving or distribution.

Kitchen use requires that the Cafeteria/All-Purpose Room at the school be booked as well. This is because food and beverages are strictly prohibited in any area outside the Cafeteria/All Purpose Room at MCPS facilities. In addition, the kitchen access is through the cafeteria/all-purpose room, all spaces outside the Cafeteria/All-Purpose, and all spaces outside the Cafeteria/All-Purpose.

Can I use the school loading docks to bring in my items?

No. The kitchen facility loading docks can only be accessed by certified MCPS vendors to ensure food safety and proper handling are maintained at all times. Access to this area is not permitted to any external user group.

What items will I need to bring?

User groups are responsible for bringing all their own supplies and equipment. This includes, bus is not limited: 

• Hot mitts and potholders
• Serving utensils and trays
• Cleaning supplies such as cleansers, soap, and sponges

MCPS does not provide any additional equipment or supplies beyond access to the approved kitchen facilities and equipment listed above.

Please treat the kitchen as you would a rental space—come prepared with all items needed for food preparation, serving, and cleaning to ensure the area is maintained correctly during and after your use.

It is mentioned that MCPS staff will clean the space- do I need to clean up?

While the MCPS kitchen staff is responsible for ensuring the space is thoroughly sanitized after use, they are not responsible for cleaning up after user groups.

User groups are expected to:

• Clean all surfaces, equipment, and floors after use.
• Wipe down counters and work areas.
• Sweep up any debris or spills.
• Bag and empty all trash.
• Clean out sinks.
• Return all equipment (such as warming tables) to its original condition and location.

The facility must be left in the same condition in which it was received.

Unsanctioned Equipment:

Please note: MCPS does not permit the use of any open flames, including "sterno" warmers, hot plates, or other cooktop items, within MCPS facilities. For a complete list of the prohibited items, please review the Facility Use License Agreement.

Required Licenses:

User groups are required, as outlined in the Facility Use License Agreement, to obtain and pay for any necessary licenses and permits, including those required to distribute food, sell goods, and sponsor a public performance. The User is liable for any applicable taxes, fees, and similar costs.

Again, if you don't see your question listed or needed additional information, please don't hesitate to reach out to our office—we are happy to help!