Cottage Food Operations: Costa Mesa vs Huntington Beach
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa has fewer restrictions than Huntington Beach.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
The California Homemade Food Act, codified at Health and Safety Code sections 113758 and 114365, sets uniform rules for cottage food operations and bars local governments from prohibiting them in residential zones.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Cottage food operations are permitted in Huntington Beach under California's Homemade Food Act. Class A operators sell directly to consumers; Class B may sell through retailers. Both require OC Health Care Agency registration/permits and a city business license.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Primary statute | H&S Code 113758 | - |
| Local preemption | H&S Code 114365 | - |
| Class A revenue cap | Adjusted annually | - |
| Class B requirement | Annual inspection | - |
| Permit type | Registration or permit | - |
| Class A | - | Direct-to-consumer, county registration |
| Class B | - | Includes wholesale, county permit |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000/year |
| Business License | - | City license required |
| State Law | - | HSC §113758 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
Can my city ban cottage food sales from my home?
No. Health and Safety Code 114365 expressly preempts local bans on cottage food operations. Cities may impose only reasonable, non-discriminatory zoning standards equivalent to other residential uses.
What foods can I sell as cottage food?
Only non-potentially-hazardous foods on the CDPH approved list, such as baked goods without cream fillings, jams, granola, and dry mixes. Refrigerated and meat products are prohibited.
Huntington Beach FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Huntington Beach?
Yes. Register with OC Health Care Agency (Class A) or get a permit (Class B), plus obtain a city business license.
What is the sales limit for cottage food?
Annual gross sales are capped at $75,000 under California law.
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