Consumption of fresh vegetables is integral to a healthy diet. Increasing consumption of vegetables may have unintended consequences. Fresh vegetables are exposed to potential microbial contamination. Numerous disease outbreaks are linked to contaminated vegetables. The aim of this study was to investigate the bacteriological quality and safety of lettuce obtained from three local markets (Main market, Hidar 11 and Fassilo) found in Bahir Dar town, Ethiopia during April-June, 2014. For bacteriological analysis a total of 30 samples of fresh lettuce 10 from each local market were collected. Samples were analyzed using Microbiological standards of Aerobic mesophilic count (AMC), Total coliform count (TCC), Entrobacteriacae count and by S. aureus count. The total mean bacteriological count for AMC (8.65 log cfu/g), TCC (5.43 log cfu/g), Entrobacteracea count (5.23 log cfu/g) and S. aureus counts (4.41 log cfu/g) were determined using one way ANOVA, there is significant difference among samples (P=0.001), (P=0.034), (P=0.046) and ( P=0.008), respectively. Salmonella spp. 6 (20.00%) were isolated. Interview and observation results of the hygienic-sanitary practices of retailers in the three markets were analyzed using frequency and percentage. Lack of awareness, washing, being dusty, lack of drainage and crowdedness are some of the information’s about lettuce contamination in markets. The study revealed that there was bacterial contamination of fresh leafy lettuce (Lactuca sativa) purchased from local markets found in Bahir Dar town. The general public should be made aware to use vinegar to wash any lettuce prior to consumption. Key words: Aerobicic mesophilic count, Total coliform count, Entrobacteracae count and S. aureus counts vii