Florida Restaurant Health Inspection Guide
Everything you need to know about health inspections in Florida. Temperature requirements, fines, and how to stay compliant with 45,000+ other restaurants.
Health Department
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)
Food Code
Based on: 2017 FDA Food Code
Florida delegates food service inspection to the Division of Hotels and Restaurants under DBPR, not the health department.
Temperature Requirements
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Cold Holding | 41°F or below |
| Hot Holding | 135°F or above |
| Cooking: Poultry | 165°F for 15 seconds |
| Cooking: Ground Meat | 155°F for 15 seconds |
| Cooking: Whole Meat/Fish | 145°F for 15 seconds + 3 min rest |
| Cooling | 135°F to 70°F in 2 hours, then 70°F to 41°F in 4 hours |
| Reheating | 165°F within 2 hours |
Inspection Process
Frequency
2-4 times per year depending on establishment type
Grading System
No letter grades. Pass/fail based on critical and non-critical violations.
Public Records
Available on DBPR website
Fines & Penalties
Fine Range
$100-$5,000 per violation
Closure Threshold
Imminent health hazard or repeated critical violations
Administrative fines. Emergency closure orders for imminent hazards. Reinspection required before reopening.
Unique Florida Rules
- Florida requires a certified food manager for all establishments with 4+ employees
- All food handlers must complete an approved food handler training program
- Florida conducts unannounced inspections year-round
Frequently Asked Questions: Florida Health Inspections
How often are restaurants inspected in Florida?
In Florida, restaurants are typically inspected 2-4 times per year depending on establishment type. The frequency depends on the establishment's risk level and history of compliance.
What score do you need to pass a health inspection in Florida?
Florida uses a no letter grades. pass/fail based on critical and non-critical violations. system. Contact your local health department for specific passing requirements.
How much are health code fines in Florida?
Health code fines in Florida range from $100-$5,000 per violation. Administrative fines. Emergency closure orders for imminent hazards. Reinspection required before reopening.
Does Florida require a certified food manager?
Most Florida food service establishments are required to have a certified food manager on staff. Check with the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) for specific requirements.
Where can I see Florida restaurant inspection results?
Available on DBPR website. You can also contact the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) directly.
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Stay Inspection-Ready in Florida
Digital temperature logging that meets Florida's requirements. Works offline, generates inspector-ready PDF reports.