South Carolina Restaurant Health Inspection Guide
Everything you need to know about health inspections in South Carolina. Temperature requirements, fines, and how to stay compliant with 10,000+ other restaurants.
Health Department
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
Food Code
Based on: 2013 FDA Food Code
DHEC manages all food safety inspections statewide.
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
1-3 times per year
Grading System
Letter grades (A/B/C) posted publicly
Public Records
Available through DHEC
Fines & Penalties
Fine Range
$100-$1,000 per violation
Closure Threshold
Imminent health hazard or C grade
DHEC enforcement.
Unique South Carolina Rules
- DHEC manages all inspections statewide
- Letter grade system posted in restaurants
- Certified food manager required
Frequently Asked Questions: South Carolina Health Inspections
How often are restaurants inspected in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, 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 South Carolina?
South Carolina uses a letter grades (a/b/c) posted publicly system. Contact your local health department for specific passing requirements.
How much are health code fines in South Carolina?
Health code fines in South Carolina range from $100-$1,000 per violation. DHEC enforcement.
Does South Carolina require a certified food manager?
Most South Carolina food service establishments are required to have a certified food manager on staff. Check with the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control for specific requirements.
Where can I see South Carolina restaurant inspection results?
Available through DHEC. You can also contact the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control directly.
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Stay Inspection-Ready in South Carolina
Digital temperature logging that meets South Carolina's requirements. Works offline, generates inspector-ready PDF reports.