North Carolina Restaurant Health Inspection Guide
Everything you need to know about health inspections in North Carolina. Temperature requirements, fines, and how to stay compliant with 22,000+ other restaurants.
Health Department
North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Food Code
Based on: 2009 FDA Food Code (NC Food Code Manual)
North Carolina has its own food code manual based on the FDA model code. County environmental health departments conduct inspections.
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 risk category
Grading System
Score-based (100-point). Grades: A (90-100), B (80-89), C (70-79). Posted in window.
Public Records
Available through county health departments and state database
Fines & Penalties
Fine Range
$250-$5,000 per violation
Closure Threshold
Imminent health hazard or score below 70
County health departments issue sanctions. Permit suspension or revocation for repeated failures.
Unique North Carolina Rules
- North Carolina requires letter grades posted prominently in restaurant windows
- NC requires a person in charge who has passed a food safety certification exam
- North Carolina has specific rules for food trucks including separate commissary requirements
Frequently Asked Questions: North Carolina Health Inspections
How often are restaurants inspected in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, restaurants are typically inspected 2-4 times per year depending on risk category. The frequency depends on the establishment's risk level and history of compliance.
What score do you need to pass a health inspection in North Carolina?
North Carolina uses a score-based (100-point). grades: a (90-100), b (80-89), c (70-79). posted in window. system. Contact your local health department for specific passing requirements.
How much are health code fines in North Carolina?
Health code fines in North Carolina range from $250-$5,000 per violation. County health departments issue sanctions. Permit suspension or revocation for repeated failures.
Does North Carolina require a certified food manager?
Most North Carolina food service establishments are required to have a certified food manager on staff. Check with the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services for specific requirements.
Where can I see North Carolina restaurant inspection results?
Available through county health departments and state database. You can also contact the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services directly.
Related Guides
Stay Inspection-Ready in North Carolina
Digital temperature logging that meets North Carolina's requirements. Works offline, generates inspector-ready PDF reports.