Minnesota Restaurant Health Inspection Guide
Everything you need to know about health inspections in Minnesota. Temperature requirements, fines, and how to stay compliant with 10,000+ other restaurants.
Health Department
Minnesota Department of Health
Food Code
Based on: 2013 FDA Food Code (Minnesota Food Code)
State and delegated local agencies conduct inspections.
Temperature Requirements
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Cold Holding | 41°F or below |
| Hot Holding | 140°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 | 140°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
1-3 times per year
Grading System
Violation-based with critical/non-critical categories
Public Records
Available through MDH
Fines & Penalties
Fine Range
$100-$5,000 per violation
Closure Threshold
Imminent health hazard
State-level enforcement.
Unique Minnesota Rules
- Minnesota has a certified food manager requirement
- State delegates some inspection authority to local agencies
Frequently Asked Questions: Minnesota Health Inspections
How often are restaurants inspected in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, restaurants are typically inspected 1-3 times per year. The frequency depends on the establishment's risk level and history of compliance.
What score do you need to pass a health inspection in Minnesota?
Minnesota uses a violation-based with critical/non-critical categories system. Contact your local health department for specific passing requirements.
How much are health code fines in Minnesota?
Health code fines in Minnesota range from $100-$5,000 per violation. State-level enforcement.
Does Minnesota require a certified food manager?
Most Minnesota food service establishments are required to have a certified food manager on staff. Check with the Minnesota Department of Health for specific requirements.
Where can I see Minnesota restaurant inspection results?
Available through MDH. You can also contact the Minnesota Department of Health directly.
Related Guides
Stay Inspection-Ready in Minnesota
Digital temperature logging that meets Minnesota's requirements. Works offline, generates inspector-ready PDF reports.