Maricopa County, Arizona
The Score Behind Every Table.
Letter Grades
Maricopa County operates a voluntary A/B/C/D letter grade program since October 14, 2011. Restaurants can opt out (NP = Not Participating). Grades are based on Priority (P) and Priority Foundation (PF) violations. Grade matrix: A = 0 Priority + 0-1 PF violations, B = 1P or 2+ PF, C = 2+ P, D = legal action pending. Operating under its own county authority, not ADHS delegation.
Excellent
0 Priority violations and 0-1 Priority Foundation violations. Highest level of food safety compliance.
Good
1 Priority violation OR 2+ Priority Foundation violations. Minor issues requiring attention.
Needs Improvement
2+ Priority violations. Significant food safety concerns requiring corrective action.
D
Legal action pending or in process. Serious food safety violations requiring immediate resolution.
Fire Safety
Fire Authority
Municipal Fire Departments / Rural Metro / Arizona State Fire Marshal
Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and other incorporated cities each have their own fire departments. Unincorporated areas are served by Rural Metro or county fire districts. Fire plan review for commercial kitchens is handled by the local AHJ.
Hood Cleaning Standard
NFPA 96 schedule applies. Phoenix metro's extreme heat means grease buildup accelerates — many high-volume operations clean more frequently than minimum requirements.
Suppression Inspection
UL-300 wet chemical systems required for all commercial cooking hoods. Semi-annual inspection required. Multiple service providers available throughout the metro area.
- UL-300 wet chemical suppression system required in all commercial cooking hoods
- Semi-annual suppression system inspection and certification
- Hood and duct cleaning per NFPA 96 schedule
- K-class portable fire extinguisher within 30 feet of cooking equipment
Official Inspection Portal
Search Maricopa County restaurant inspections
MCESD Inspection Portal
Source: Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD)
Inspection Authority
Agency
Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD)
Code Basis
AAC R9-8 (ADHS)
Cities in Maricopa County
See food safety and fire safety requirements for each city.
ScoreTable
The Score Behind Every Table.
All data from official public health and fire authority records only · founders@getevidly.com
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