Cottage Food Operations: Castro Valley vs Fremont
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Fremont, CA?
Fremont has fewer restrictions than Castro Valley.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Cottage Food Operations are governed by state law (AB 1616 as amended by AB 1240) and registered or permitted through Alameda County Environmental Health; Class A registers, Class B is permitted and inspected.
View full Castro Valley rules →Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont follows California Cottage Food Law (AB 1616 and AB 1240). Class A direct sales allowed with registration; Class B indirect sales need permit. Max $150,000 gross receipts.
View full Fremont rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Fremont |
|---|---|---|
| State law | AB 1616 / AB 1240 California Homemade Food Act | - |
| Class A | Direct sales only; registration with Env. Health | Self-registration direct sales |
| Class B | Indirect sales allowed; permit plus inspection | Permit plus inspection |
| Approved foods only | State Approved Food List (non-PHF) | - |
| Training | Food processor course within 3 months | - |
| Gross Cap | - | 150,000 dollars (AB 1240) |
| Health Jurisdiction | - | Alameda County Env Health |
| MEHKO | - | Not opted-in in Alameda |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Can Alameda County ban home-based food sales?
No. State law preempts most local bans; counties may only impose reasonable standards such as zoning consistency and complaint response.
What about hot meals?
Hot prepared meals fall under the Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation (MEHKO) program under AB 626, which is separate from CFO.
Fremont FAQ
Can I sell cottage food online?
Yes. Class A CFOs can take online orders as long as delivery is direct to the consumer (pickup or direct local delivery). Shipping across county lines is allowed within California but not interstate.
Do I need a separate kitchen?
No. CFO law specifically authorizes use of your regular home kitchen. Basic requirements include no pets in the kitchen during production, proper handwashing, safe food temperatures, and a California food handler card.
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