Brevard County health inspectors have issued warnings to at least seven restaurants since January 2024 for failing to address infestations of flies and cockroaches, along with expired food handling licenses. The violations were uncovered during routine inspections at locations including the Space Coast Fish House in Cocoa and the Galaxy Diner in Palm Bay. Inspections conducted in March revealed that three establishments had not completed required pest control treatments for over 90 days. "These are basic requirements for food safety," said Brevard County Health Department spokesperson Lisa Martinez. "We’re working with owners to bring them into compliance." Two restaurants in the Titusville area were ordered to temporarily close after inspectors found live cockroaches in storage areas and expired licenses for their food service staff. The closures, which lasted 48 hours, affected the Neptune Grille and the Starfish Café. Health department records show that 12% of inspected restaurants in Brevard failed pest control checks in the first quarter of 2024, up from 8% in 2023. Restaurant owners argue that supply chain delays have made it harder to secure necessary permits. "We’re doing our best, but getting new licenses takes time," said Marco Ruiz, owner of the Galaxy Diner. "We’ve hired a pest control company and are in the process of renewing all our certifications." The health department has scheduled follow-up inspections for all cited restaurants by mid-May. Violations can result in fines of up to $500 per infraction, according to county code. Inspectors emphasize that repeated failures could lead to permanent closure. "We’re not here to shut down businesses," Martinez added. "But we can’t compromise on public health."