Cottage Food Operations: Huntington Beach vs Irvine
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Huntington Beach, CA and Irvine, CA?
Huntington Beach and Irvine have similar restriction levels.
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 →Irvine, CA
Orange County
Irvine regulates cottage food operations under Zoning Ordinance Chapter 2-18 (Cottage Food Operator Permit) and California's Homemade Food Act. Class A and B operators must register or obtain permits from the OC Health Care Agency and obtain a city cottage food operator permit.
View full Irvine rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Huntington Beach | Irvine |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct-to-consumer, county registration | - |
| Class B | Includes wholesale, county permit | - |
| Sales Cap | $75,000/year | $75,000/year |
| Business License | City license required | Required |
| State Law | HSC §113758 | - |
| City Permit | - | Cottage Food Operator Permit |
| County Registration | - | OC Health Care Agency |
| Code Section | - | Zoning Ordinance Ch. 2-18 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Irvine FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Irvine?
Yes. You need a cottage food operator permit from the city (Zoning Ordinance Ch. 2-18), registration/permit from OC Health Care Agency, and a city business license.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved non-hazardous foods include baked goods, jams, dried fruits, granola, candy, and honey. Check the current approved list with OC Health Care Agency.
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