New Orleans restaurants are inspected by the Louisiana Department of Health under state Sanitary Code, with results posted publicly. The city also requires food-establishment permits through the Health Department under Code Chapter 30.
Louisiana law (LA RS 40:4 and Title 51 Sanitary Code Part XXIII) gives LDH primary inspection authority for restaurants statewide, including Orleans Parish. Inspectors check temperatures, handwashing, vermin, and storage during routine and complaint visits. Inspection reports are posted on the LDH Eat Safe portal. New Orleans Code Chapter 30 (Health and Sanitation) requires a separate city food-establishment permit, an annual occupational license (Chapter 150), and compliance with the Smoke-Free Air Ordinance. Violations can lead to embargo of food, suspension, or closure orders pending corrective action.
Critical violations such as no hot water, vermin, or unsafe holding temperatures can trigger immediate closure. Repeat violations risk permit revocation and citations under LA Sanitary Code.
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