Cottage Food Operations: Chula Vista vs San Marcos
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Chula Vista, CA and San Marcos, CA?
Chula Vista and San Marcos have similar restriction levels.
Chula Vista, CA
San Diego County
Cottage food operations in Chula Vista are regulated under the California Homemade Food Act (Health & Safety Code sections 113758-114365). Class A operations sell directly to consumers; Class B operations may also sell indirectly. A city business license and county health registration are required.
View full Chula Vista rules →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
San Marcos residents may operate cottage food businesses from their home kitchens under California's Cottage Food Law (AB 1616 and AB 626). Class A operations sell directly to consumers and require registration with San Diego County. Class B operations may sell directly and through third-party retailers, requiring a county health permit. Annual gross sales are capped at $75,000.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Chula Vista | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Revenue | Up to $75,000/year — direct sales only | - |
| Class B | Direct and indirect sales permitted | Direct + wholesale; county permit and inspection |
| Registration | SD County Dept of Environmental Health | - |
| Business License | Required from City of Chula Vista | - |
| State Law | CA HSC §§113758-114365 | - |
| Class A | - | Direct sales only; county registration required |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000 annual gross sales |
| Labeling | - | 'Made in a Home Kitchen' required on all products |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Chula Vista FAQ
Do I need a commercial kitchen to sell homemade food in Chula Vista?
No. Under the California Homemade Food Act, cottage food products may be prepared in your home kitchen. The kitchen must meet basic sanitation standards but does not need commercial equipment.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operation?
Approved items include baked goods, candy, dried fruits, granola, jams, nut butters, honey, and other non-potentially-hazardous shelf-stable foods. The full list is in the California Homemade Food Act.
Do I need a Chula Vista business license for cottage food?
Yes. A city business license is required in addition to San Diego County cottage food registration.
San Marcos FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in San Marcos?
Yes, under California's Cottage Food Law. Register as a Class A operation with San Diego County for direct sales, or obtain a Class B permit to also sell through retail stores. Annual sales are capped at $75,000.
What foods can I make under the cottage food law?
Approved items include baked goods, candies, dried fruits, granola, jams, honey, and other shelf-stable products. Foods requiring refrigeration are not permitted. The county health department maintains the full list of approved items.
Do I need a San Marcos business license for a cottage food operation?
Yes. In addition to county cottage food registration or permit, you should obtain a city business license and verify that your home occupation permit accommodates cottage food production.
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