Mission Viejo vs Santa Ana
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Mission Viejo, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Mission Viejo has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
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 →Santa Ana, CA
Orange County
Cottage food operations are permitted in Santa Ana under California's Homemade Food Act (AB 1616/AB 626) and SAMC business licensing requirements. Class A operators sell directly to consumers; Class B operators may sell through third-party retailers and at farmers markets.
View full Santa Ana rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mission Viejo | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Direct sales only, self-certification | Direct-to-consumer, county registration |
| Class B | Direct and indirect sales, inspection required | Includes wholesale, county permit |
| Revenue Cap | $75,000 per year | - |
| Registration | OCHCA + City business license | - |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000/year |
| Business License | - | Required from City of Santa Ana |
| State Law | - | HSC §113758, §114365 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Santa Ana FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Santa Ana?
Yes. Under California's cottage food law, you may sell approved non-hazardous foods from your home with proper registration (Class A) or permit (Class B) from the Orange County Health Care Agency plus a Santa Ana business license.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved items include baked goods, jams, dried fruits, granola, candy, honey, and other non-potentially-hazardous foods. Check the current list with the Orange County Health Care Agency.
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