Mountain View vs Sunnyvale
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Mountain View, CA and Sunnyvale, CA?
Mountain View has fewer restrictions than Sunnyvale.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Mountain View follows the California Homemade Food Act allowing Cottage Food Operations at home. State law sets product, revenue, and registration rules.
View full Mountain View rules →Sunnyvale, CA
Santa Clara County
California AB 1616 and AB 1240 allow home-based Cottage Food Operations in Sunnyvale. Class A permits direct sales up to 75000 dollars. Class B allows indirect sales through retail with additional inspections.
View full Sunnyvale rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | Sunnyvale |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | CA Homemade Food Act | - |
| Classes | A direct, B indirect | - |
| Revenue cap | Around 150,000 dollars | - |
| Registration | SCC Environmental Health | - |
| Employees | One non-household | - |
| State law | - | AB 1616 and AB 1240 |
| Class A sales cap | - | 75000 dollars per year |
| Class B inspections | - | Required annually |
| County permit | - | Santa Clara County Environmental Health |
| City requirement | - | Home occupation permit plus business license |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Can I sell homemade pies from my Mountain View home?
Yes, as a Class A Cottage Food Operation registered with Santa Clara County Environmental Health, selling directly to consumers with proper labeling.
What foods cannot be sold under cottage food?
Potentially hazardous foods requiring refrigeration, meats, seafood, and most wet-pack items are excluded. Only the state CFO approved list qualifies.
Sunnyvale FAQ
Can I sell homemade tamales under cottage food in Sunnyvale?
Tamales are not on the approved cottage food list because they contain potentially hazardous ingredients. Consider the MEHKO program under AB 626 instead.
Do I need a business license from Sunnyvale too?
Yes, in addition to the county cottage food registration you need a Sunnyvale business license and a home occupation permit.
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