Cottage Food Operations: Castro Valley vs San Leandro
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and San Leandro, CA?
San Leandro 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 →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
Cottage Food Operations are legal in San Leandro under AB 1616/AB 1240. Register with Alameda County Environmental Health. Class A and B sales allowed.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| State law | AB 1616 / AB 1240 California Homemade Food Act | - |
| Class A | Direct sales only; registration with Env. Health | Direct sales |
| Class B | Indirect sales allowed; permit plus inspection | Indirect + inspection |
| Approved foods only | State Approved Food List (non-PHF) | - |
| Training | Food processor course within 3 months | - |
| State Law | - | AB 1616 / AB 1240 |
| Registration | - | Alameda County EH |
| Revenue Cap | - | 150,000 dollars |
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.
San Leandro FAQ
Can I sell homemade cookies from my San Leandro kitchen?
Yes. Register as a Class A Cottage Food Operation with Alameda County Environmental Health, then sell directly to consumers from home or at approved venues.
Do I still need a San Leandro business license for cottage food?
Yes. A city business license and Home Occupation Permit are required in addition to county CFO registration.
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