Cottage Food Operations: Carmichael vs Elk Grove
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Carmichael, CA and Elk Grove, CA?
Carmichael and Elk Grove have similar restriction levels.
Carmichael, CA
Sacramento County
Cottage Food Operations are legal in unincorporated Sacramento County under AB 1616 and AB 1240. Registration or permitting through Sacramento County Environmental Management Department is required, and sales are capped at 150,000 dollars annually (Class B).
View full Carmichael rules →Elk Grove, CA
Sacramento County
Elk Grove residents can operate a Cottage Food Operation under California's AB 1616 (CalCode §113758). Sacramento County Environmental Management registers or permits CFOs, allowing approved low-risk foods made at home. AB 1240 (2021) raised the annual gross sales cap to $150,000.
View full Elk Grove rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Carmichael | Elk Grove |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales, registration | - |
| Class B | Indirect sales, permit | - |
| Revenue Cap | 150,000 dollars per year | - |
| Label | Made in a Home Kitchen | Made in Home Kitchen |
| MEHKO | Pilot program available | - |
| State law | - | AB 1616 / AB 1240 |
| Sales cap | - | $150,000/yr |
| Classes | - | A (direct), B (indirect) |
| County agency | - | Sac Env. Management |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Carmichael FAQ
Can I sell homemade cookies from my kitchen?
Yes, with a Class A CFO registration through Sacramento County Environmental Management.
Can I sell home-cooked meals?
Only under the MEHKO program (AB 626), which requires a separate permit and Sacramento County participates.
Elk Grove FAQ
Can I sell home-made cheesecake under Cottage Food?
No. Dairy-based cheesecake is potentially hazardous and not on the approved CFO list.
Do I need a permit to sell jam from my Elk Grove kitchen?
Yes. Register as a Class A CFO with Sacramento County and obtain a city business tax certificate and Home Occupation Permit.
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