Huntington Beach vs Mission Viejo
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Huntington Beach, CA and Mission Viejo, CA?
Mission Viejo has fewer restrictions than Huntington Beach.
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 →Mission Viejo, CA
Orange County
California's Cottage Food Law (AB 1616 and AB 1266) allows Mission Viejo residents to produce and sell approved non-potentially-hazardous foods from their home kitchens. Class A permits allow direct sales to consumers with annual revenue up to $75,000. Class B permits allow indirect sales through stores and restaurants. Registration is through the Orange County Health Care Agency. City business license is also required.
View full Mission Viejo rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Huntington Beach | Mission Viejo |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct-to-consumer, county registration | Direct sales only, self-certification |
| Class B | Includes wholesale, county permit | Direct and indirect sales, inspection required |
| Sales Cap | $75,000/year | - |
| Business License | City license required | - |
| State Law | HSC §113758 | - |
| Revenue Cap | - | $75,000 per year |
| Registration | - | OCHCA + City business license |
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.
Mission Viejo FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Mission Viejo?
Yes, under California's Cottage Food Law. Register as a Class A operator with the Orange County Health Care Agency for direct consumer sales, or obtain a Class B permit for sales to stores. You also need a Mission Viejo business license. Annual revenue is capped at $75,000.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved items include baked goods without cream fillings, candy, dried fruits, granola, honey, jams, nut butters, popcorn, roasted nuts, and spice mixes. Foods requiring refrigeration such as dairy-based products, meats, and custards are not permitted.
Does my HOA allow cottage food operations in Mission Viejo?
It depends on your community's CC&Rs. While California law preempts local ordinances that ban cottage food, HOAs may enforce rules about customer traffic, parking, signage, and visible business activities. Check with your HOA management company before starting operations.
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