Cottage Food Operations: El Cajon vs Escondido
How do cottage food operations rules compare between El Cajon, CA and Escondido, CA?
El Cajon has fewer restrictions than Escondido.
El Cajon, CA
San Diego County
Cottage food operations in El Cajon are permitted under the California Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 1266). Class A operations (direct sales only) require a self-certification registration with San Diego County. Class B operations (indirect sales to stores/restaurants) require a county health permit.
View full El Cajon rules →Escondido, CA
San Diego County
CA Homemade Food Act applies. SD County DEH approval before city license. Kitchen only. Class A: $75K. Class B: $150K. One non-resident employee.
View full Escondido rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | El Cajon | Escondido |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales — self-certification | $75K/yr |
| Class B | Indirect sales — county permit | $150K/yr |
| Revenue Cap | $75,000 per year | - |
| State Law | CA Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) | - |
| Registration | SD County Environmental Health | - |
| DEH | - | Required first |
| Employees | - | 1 part-time |
| Location | - | Kitchen only |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
El Cajon FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in El Cajon?
Yes. Under California's Homemade Food Act, you can sell approved shelf-stable foods. Register with San Diego County Environmental Health and obtain a city business license.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operation?
Approved items include baked goods, dried fruits, granola, candy, jams, nut butters, and other shelf-stable non-potentially hazardous foods. Dairy, meat, and items needing refrigeration are not permitted.
What is the difference between Class A and Class B?
Class A allows direct sales to consumers only (home, farmers markets). Class B allows indirect sales through stores and restaurants but requires a county health permit with kitchen inspection.
Escondido FAQ
Permit?
DEH approval + city business license.
Garage OK?
No. Kitchen only.
What to sell?
Baked goods, candies, jams, dried fruits per CA law.
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