Los Angeles vs Palmdale
How do restaurant grade cards rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Palmdale, CA?
Los Angeles and Palmdale have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 8 Chapter 8.04 requires every retail food facility to post a letter grade card within five feet of the customer entrance. A=90+, B=80-89, C=70-79; scores below 70 trigger closure until reinspection clears the violations.
View full Los Angeles rules →Palmdale, CA
Los Angeles County
LA County Code Title 8 Chapter 8.04 requires every retail food facility countywide to post an LACDPH letter grade within five feet of the entrance. A=90+, B=80-89, C=70-79; scores below 70 trigger immediate closure until reinspection clears violations.
View full Palmdale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Palmdale |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | LA County Code §8.04.752 | LA County Code §8.04.752 |
| Posting location | Within 5 feet of entrance | Within 5 feet of entrance |
| Grade thresholds | A=90+, B=80-89, C=70-79 | A=90+, B=80-89, C=70-79 |
| Closure trigger | Score below 70 points | Score below 70 points |
| Inspector | LACDPH Environmental Health | - |
| Coverage | - | All cities except Pasadena, Long Beach |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
How often does the health department inspect my restaurant?
At least once per year, with additional unannounced visits for complaints, follow-ups, or after a sub-70 score. High-risk facilities can see two or three routine inspections annually.
Can I request a regrade if I disagree with the score?
Yes. Operators may pay for one owner-initiated regrade per grading period. The new score replaces the prior letter grade, even if it ends up lower.
Are food trucks graded too?
Yes. Mobile food facilities receive the same A/B/C system and must post the card visibly on the service window of the truck.
Palmdale FAQ
Does the LA County grade system apply in my city?
Yes in 86 of 88 LA County cities plus unincorporated areas. Pasadena and Long Beach run independent health departments with their own inspection programs and grading rules.
How often does LACDPH inspect?
At least once per year, with additional unannounced visits for complaints, follow-ups, or after a sub-70 score. High-risk facilities can see two or three routine inspections annually.
Can operators request a regrade?
Yes. Owners may pay for one owner-initiated regrade per grading period through LACDPH. The new score replaces the prior letter grade, even if it ends up lower than the original.
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