Texas Restaurant Health Inspection Guide
Everything you need to know about health inspections in Texas. Temperature requirements, fines, and how to stay compliant with 58,000+ other restaurants.
Health Department
Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
Food Code
Based on: 2017 FDA Food Code
Texas uses a risk-based inspection framework. Restaurants are inspected 1-4 times per year based on risk category.
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
1-4 times per year based on risk level
Grading System
Score-based (100-point scale). 70+ to pass. Published online.
Public Records
Available on DSHS website
Fines & Penalties
Fine Range
$25-$25,000 per violation
Closure Threshold
Imminent health hazard or score below 60
Civil penalties. Repeat offenders face higher fines. Criminal charges for willful violations.
Unique Texas Rules
- Texas requires a Certified Food Manager on-site during all operating hours
- Mobile food vendors need separate permits for each county
- Cottage food operations are exempt from inspection up to $75,000 annual sales
Frequently Asked Questions: Texas Health Inspections
How often are restaurants inspected in Texas?
In Texas, restaurants are typically inspected 1-4 times per year based on risk level. The frequency depends on the establishment's risk level and history of compliance.
What score do you need to pass a health inspection in Texas?
Texas uses a score-based (100-point scale). 70+ to pass. published online. system. Contact your local health department for specific passing requirements.
How much are health code fines in Texas?
Health code fines in Texas range from $25-$25,000 per violation. Civil penalties. Repeat offenders face higher fines. Criminal charges for willful violations.
Does Texas require a certified food manager?
Most Texas food service establishments are required to have a certified food manager on staff. Check with the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) for specific requirements.
Where can I see Texas restaurant inspection results?
Available on DSHS website. You can also contact the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) directly.
Related Guides
Stay Inspection-Ready in Texas
Digital temperature logging that meets Texas's requirements. Works offline, generates inspector-ready PDF reports.