Cottage Food Operations: Carlsbad vs El Cajon
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Carlsbad, CA and El Cajon, CA?
El Cajon has fewer restrictions than Carlsbad.
Carlsbad, CA
San Diego County
CA Homemade Food Act applies. Cottage food permitted per H&S §113758. Kitchen only. City business license required. SD County DEH oversight.
View full Carlsbad rules →El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
Cottage food operations in El Cajon are permitted under the California Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 1266). Class A operations (direct sales only) require a self-certification registration with San Diego County. Class B operations (indirect sales to stores/restaurants) require a county health permit.
View full El Cajon rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carlsbad | El Cajon |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Dwelling kitchen only | - |
| Class A | $75K/yr | Direct sales — self-certification |
| Class B | $150K/yr | Indirect sales — county permit |
| License | City business license | - |
| County | DEH oversight | - |
| Revenue Cap | - | $75,000 per year |
| State Law | - | CA Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) |
| Registration | - | SD County Environmental Health |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carlsbad FAQ
Start cottage food?
Obtain city business license. Kitchen only per H&S §113758.
Revenue limits?
Class A: $75K. Class B: $150K.
Garage OK?
No. Kitchen only.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in El Cajon?
Yes. Under California's Homemade Food Act, you can sell approved shelf-stable foods. Register with San Diego County Environmental Health and obtain a city business license.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operation?
Approved items include baked goods, dried fruits, granola, candy, jams, nut butters, and other shelf-stable non-potentially hazardous foods. Dairy, meat, and items needing refrigeration are not permitted.
What is the difference between Class A and Class B?
Class A allows direct sales to consumers only (home, farmers markets). Class B allows indirect sales through stores and restaurants but requires a county health permit with kitchen inspection.
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