Cottage Food Operations: Fullerton vs Huntington Beach
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Huntington Beach.
Fullerton, CA
Orange County
Fullerton permits cottage food operations under California's Cottage Food Act (AB 1616, Health and Safety Code Sections 113758 et seq.). Class A cottage food operators sell directly to consumers and register with the Orange County Health Care Agency. Class B operators may sell through third-party retailers and require a county permit. Annual gross sales are capped at $75,000. Only approved non-potentially hazardous foods may be prepared.
View full Fullerton 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 | Fullerton | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales only — OCHCA registration required | Direct-to-consumer, county registration |
| Class B | Indirect sales allowed — OCHCA permit required | Includes wholesale, county permit |
| Annual Cap | $75,000 gross sales | - |
| Labeling | 'Made in a Home Kitchen' label required | - |
| OCHCA | (714) 433-6000 | - |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000/year |
| Business License | - | City license required |
| State Law | - | HSC §113758 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fullerton FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Fullerton?
Yes. Under California's Cottage Food Act, you can prepare and sell approved non-potentially hazardous foods like baked goods from your home kitchen. Register as a Class A operator with the Orange County Health Care Agency to sell directly to consumers. You also need a Fullerton business license.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved items include baked goods without cream filling, candies, dried fruits, granola, honey, jams, jellies, nuts, popcorn, and certain other shelf-stable foods. Meat, dairy cream, and cut fresh fruit products are not permitted. The OCHCA website has the complete approved list.
How much can I earn from cottage food sales in Fullerton?
Annual gross sales are capped at $75,000 under California law. Both Class A and Class B operations are subject to this cap. Exceeding it may require transitioning to a licensed commercial kitchen operation.
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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