Cottage Food Operations: Altadena vs Downey
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Altadena, CA and Downey, CA?
Altadena and Downey have similar restriction levels.
Altadena, CA
Los Angeles County
Cottage food operations in unincorporated LA County are governed by California's Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 626). Class A operators sell direct to consumers. Class B operators (indirect sales, farmers markets) need LA County DPH registration. Annual sales caps apply.
View full Altadena rules →Downey, CA
Los Angeles County
California's Cottage Food Law (AB 1616 / AB 1271) allows home-based food production. Class A (direct sales) up to $75,000/year; Class B (indirect sales) requires county health permit. Downey business license also required.
View full Downey rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Altadena | Downey |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales, $75,000 cap | Direct sales up to $75K/yr |
| Class B | County health registration needed | Indirect sales, county permit needed |
| State Law | CA HSC 113758 | AB 1616 Cottage Food Act |
| Labeling | Home kitchen disclosure required | - |
| City License | - | Downey business license required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Altadena FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from home in LA County?
Yes, under California's Cottage Food Law. Class A permits direct sales up to $75,000/year from your home or farmers markets with just a self-certification checklist. No commercial kitchen is needed.
What foods can I sell under the Cottage Food Law?
Non-potentially-hazardous foods: baked goods, candy, chocolate, dried fruit, granola, honey, jams/jellies, nut butters, popcorn, and more. Foods requiring refrigeration are not permitted.
Do I need a health permit for cottage food?
Class A (direct sales only) requires only a self-certification checklist. Class B (sales through stores/restaurants) requires registration with LA County Department of Public Health at (888) 700-9995.
Downey FAQ
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Yes, under cottage food laws in most areas. Downey allows certain shelf-stable foods sold directly to consumers with proper labeling.
Do I need a commercial kitchen?
No, cottage food laws allow production in your home kitchen without commercial inspection, within revenue limits.
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