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California Cottage Food Law
general info · not legal advice · verify before selling · Cal. Health & Safety Code §113758
- Sales cap
- $75k (A) / $150k (B)
- License
- Registration + food-safety training
- Shipping
- In-state allowed
- Sell to
- Direct (A) / indirect (B)
⚠️ Always verify with your state. This is general information, not legal advice, and cottage food rules change often. Before selling, confirm the current caps, licensing, allowed foods, labeling and shipping rules with your state's Department of Agriculture or Health — you are responsible for your own compliance.
Class A ($75k, direct) and Class B ($150k, indirect/retail) permits; food-handler training and county registration required. In-state shipping now allowed. Separate MEHKO program covers cooked meals.
What you can & can't sell
✓ ALLOWEDShelf-stable, non-potentially-hazardous foods, typically: breads & rolls · cookies · cakes & cupcakes (non-refrigerated) · fruit pies · jams, jellies & preserves · honey · dry mixes, herbs & spices · granola · candy & chocolate · popcorn · roasted coffee
✗ NOT ALLOWEDFoods needing refrigeration for safety, typically: cream/custard/cheese-based items · meat, poultry & jerky · low-acid canned goods (vegetables, salsa) · fermented or pickled foods · fresh juices · anything requiring temperature control
Typical for this type of law — confirm your state's exact allowed-foods list before selling.
Labeling
Labeling
Most states require a label on every item with your business name, address, ingredients, allergens, net weight, and a disclaimer that the food was made in a home kitchen not subject to state inspection. Check your state's exact required wording.Selling homemade food in California?List free and get discovered by local buyers.
Post your food free →