Cottage Food Operations: Monterey vs Salinas
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Monterey, CA and Salinas, CA?
Monterey and Salinas have similar restriction levels.
Monterey, CA
Monterey County
The California Homemade Food Act, codified at Health and Safety Code sections 113758 and 114365, sets uniform rules for cottage food operations and bars local governments from prohibiting them in residential zones.
View full Monterey rules →Salinas, CA
Monterey County
Salinas permits certain homemade food products to be sold directly to consumers under cottage food laws. Products must be non-potentially hazardous and properly labeled.
View full Salinas rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Monterey | Salinas |
|---|---|---|
| Primary statute | H&S Code 113758 | - |
| Local preemption | H&S Code 114365 | - |
| Class A revenue cap | Adjusted annually | - |
| Class B requirement | Annual inspection | - |
| Permit type | Registration or permit | - |
| Allowed | - | Baked goods, jams, candy |
| Revenue Cap | - | Varies by state |
| Labeling | - | Required with allergens |
| Inspection | - | Generally not required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Monterey FAQ
Can my city ban cottage food sales from my home?
No. Health and Safety Code 114365 expressly preempts local bans on cottage food operations. Cities may impose only reasonable, non-discriminatory zoning standards equivalent to other residential uses.
What foods can I sell as cottage food?
Only non-potentially-hazardous foods on the CDPH approved list, such as baked goods without cream fillings, jams, granola, and dry mixes. Refrigerated and meat products are prohibited.
Salinas FAQ
Can I sell homemade baked goods from my home?
Yes, under cottage food laws in most areas. Salinas 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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