Restaurants in Knoxville are inspected by the Knox County Health Department under Tennessee state food safety rules. Scores are posted publicly and follow-up inspections occur after low scores or critical violations.
The Knox County Health Department (KCHD) conducts routine food service inspections under Tennessee Department of Health rules (Chapter 1200-23-1). Establishments receive numeric scores out of 100, with critical violations such as improper temperatures, cross-contamination, or rodent activity weighted heaviest. Scores are posted at the entrance and published online at knoxcounty.org. Routine inspections occur roughly twice yearly for most full-service restaurants. Follow-up visits happen within ten days for scores under 70 or imminent health hazards. Operators must hold a current food service permit before opening, and a certified food protection manager must be on staff during operating hours.
Operating without a permit, blocking inspectors, or failing to correct critical violations can lead to permit suspension, closure, fines, and reinspection fees under state code.
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