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Albuquerque, NM Public Health Rules: Restaurant Grade Cards (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Inspecting agency
Environmental Health Department (Enforcement Authority)
Placard required
Yes, conspicuous public display
Minimum inspection frequency
At least every 18 months
First-offense fine
$250 civil penalty
Repeat within 36 months
$500, then $1,000

Summary

Albuquerque restaurants must post the Grade from their most recent health inspection where customers can see it, under the Food Service and Retail Ordinance.

Grading of Food Establishments. The Enforcement Authority shall issue an appropriate score and associated Grade to each Food Establishment at the conclusion of each inspection. Every Food Establishment shall display, in a conspicuous location, which is readily visible to the public, a placard stating the Grade received at the time of the most recent inspection of the Food Establishment.

Source: Albuquerque Code of OrdinancesView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-95: Current through Ordinance 2026-010, passed 4-6-2026).

Full Breakdown

The Environmental Health Department inspects every Food Establishment based on its risk category, at least once every 18 months, and issues a numeric score and Grade. Every Food Establishment must display the placard showing that Grade in a conspicuous, publicly visible location. Violations draw escalating civil fines and can lead to permit suspension or revocation.

Violations & Fines

Civil fine of $250 for a first offense, $500 for a second, and $1,000 for a third or subsequent offense within any 36-month period; each day of violation is separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Albuquerque restaurants have to post their inspection grade?
Yes. Every Food Establishment must display, in a conspicuous location visible to the public, a placard stating the Grade from its most recent inspection.
How often are Albuquerque restaurants inspected?
The Environmental Health Department inspects based on risk category, with every Food Establishment inspected at least once every 18 months, more often after complaints.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Albuquerque

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All Albuquerque rules

Compare Albuquerque to another location·View the New Mexico public health rules overview

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