Reno's Public Health Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles public health rules a little differently. In Reno, Nevada, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Restaurant Grade Cards

Washoe County Health District inspects Reno food establishments and posts results to a public database. Reno does not use letter grades but publishes pass, conditional, or closed status with full inspection reports.

Key details: Inspecting agency: Washoe County Health District. Routine frequency: 1-3 times yearly by risk. Re-inspection window: 10 days. Public reports: Posted online weekly.

Operating without a valid permit, refusing inspection, or failing to correct priority violations leads to permit suspension, fines, and forced closure until violations are corrected and re-inspection passes.

Food Handler Certification

Washoe County requires every food worker in Reno restaurants and food trucks to obtain a food handler card within 30 days of hire. Cards are valid for three years and must be presented during inspections.

Key details: Deadline after hire: 30 days. Card validity: 3 years. Approximate cost: $15 per card. Manager requirement: 1 CFPM per location.

Employing uncertified food handlers brings fines of $100 per worker per inspection, plus possible permit suspension. Repeat or willful violations can lead to permit revocation and required staff retraining before reopening.

The Bottom Line

Reno's public health rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Reno is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Reno's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.