Newport Beach vs Santa Ana
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Newport Beach, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Newport Beach and Santa Ana have similar restriction levels.
Newport Beach, CA
Orange County
Newport Beach allows cottage food operations in residential kitchens under the California Homemade Food Act. Class A operators sell directly to consumers with annual sales up to $75,000. Class B operators may sell indirectly through stores and farmers markets and must register with the Orange County Health Care Agency.
View full Newport Beach 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 | Newport Beach | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Sales Cap | $75,000 | - |
| Class A | Direct sales, self-certified | Direct-to-consumer, county registration |
| Class B | Indirect sales, requires registration | Includes wholesale, county permit |
| Employees | Household members only | - |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000/year |
| Business License | - | Required from City of Santa Ana |
| State Law | - | HSC §113758, §114365 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newport Beach FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Newport Beach?
Yes. Under the California Homemade Food Act, you can sell approved non-hazardous food products from your home kitchen. Register with the Orange County Health Care Agency as either a Class A or Class B cottage food operation.
What foods can I sell as a cottage food operator?
Approved products include baked goods, jams, honey, granola, dried fruits, candy, nut butters, and other shelf-stable items that do not require refrigeration. Check the Orange County Health Care Agency's approved food list.
Do I need a business license for cottage food in Newport Beach?
You need a Newport Beach home occupation permit or business license in addition to registering with the Orange County Health Care Agency. Contact Community Development at (949) 644-3200 for home business permit requirements.
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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