Cottage Food Operations: Los Angeles vs Santa Monica
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Monica, CA?
Los Angeles and Santa Monica have similar restriction levels.
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles County
Cottage food operations are governed by the CA Homemade Food Act (AB 1616) and enforced by LA County Dept of Public Health. Class A operators sell direct to consumers without a permit from the county (self-certification). Class B operators who sell indirect (retail/online) need a county permit ($292). Annual gross sales capped at $75,000 for Class B. Only non-potentially-hazardous foods allowed.
View full Los Angeles rules →Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles County
Cottage food operations are permitted in Santa Monica under CA HSC §113758 as an exception to home occupation rules. CFOs may have non-resident employees for cottage food per SMMC §9.31.160. State registration or permit required.
View full Santa Monica rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Los Angeles | Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Self-certification, direct sales only | - |
| Class B | $292 county permit, indirect sales | - |
| Sales Cap | $75,000/year (Class B) | - |
| Food Types | Non-potentially-hazardous only | - |
| State Law | CA AB 1616 Homemade Food Act | CA HSC §113758 |
| Allowed | - | Exception to home occupation rules |
| Employees | - | CFO exception applies |
| Code | - | SMMC §9.31.160 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Los Angeles FAQ
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Yes, under cottage food laws in most areas. Los Angeles allows certain shelf-stable foods sold directly to consumers with proper labeling.
Do I need a commercial kitchen?
No, cottage food laws allow production in your home kitchen without commercial inspection, within revenue limits.
Santa Monica FAQ
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Yes, under cottage food laws in most areas. Santa Monica allows certain shelf-stable foods sold directly to consumers with proper labeling.
Do I need a commercial kitchen?
No, cottage food laws allow production in your home kitchen without commercial inspection, within revenue limits.
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