Cottage Food Operations: Fullerton vs Newport Beach
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Fullerton, CA and Newport Beach, CA?
Fullerton has fewer restrictions than Newport 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 →Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach allows cottage food operations in residential kitchens under the California Homemade Food Act. Class A operators sell directly to consumers with annual sales up to $75,000. Class B operators may sell indirectly through stores and farmers markets and must register with the Orange County Health Care Agency.
View full Newport Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fullerton | Newport Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales only — OCHCA registration required | Direct sales, self-certified |
| Class B | Indirect sales allowed — OCHCA permit required | Indirect sales, requires registration |
| Annual Cap | $75,000 gross sales | - |
| Labeling | 'Made in a Home Kitchen' label required | - |
| OCHCA | (714) 433-6000 | - |
| Annual Sales Cap | - | $75,000 |
| Employees | - | Household members only |
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.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Newport Beach?
Yes. Under the California Homemade Food Act, you can sell approved non-hazardous food products from your home kitchen. Register with the Orange County Health Care Agency as either a Class A or Class B cottage food operation.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved products include baked goods, jams, honey, granola, dried fruits, candy, nut butters, and other shelf-stable items that do not require refrigeration. Check the Orange County Health Care Agency's approved food list.
Do I need a business license for cottage food in Newport Beach?
You need a Newport Beach home occupation permit or business license in addition to registering with the Orange County Health Care Agency. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 for home business permit requirements.
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