Orange vs Santa Ana
How do cottage food operations rules compare between Orange, CA and Santa Ana, CA?
Orange has fewer restrictions than Santa Ana.
Orange, CA
Orange County
California's Cottage Food Act (AB 1616) allows residents in Orange to prepare and sell approved non-potentially-hazardous foods from their home kitchen. Class A operations sell directly to consumers; Class B operations may sell to stores and require an OC Health permit.
View full Orange 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 | Orange | Santa Ana |
|---|---|---|
| Class A Cap | $75,000 annual sales | - |
| Class B | Requires OC Health permit | Includes wholesale, county permit |
| Business License | Required from City of Orange | Required from City of Santa Ana |
| State Law | H&S Code §113758 | HSC §113758, §114365 |
| Class A | - | Direct-to-consumer, county registration |
| Sales Cap | - | $75,000/year |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Orange FAQ
Can I sell baked goods from my home in Orange?
Yes. Under California's Cottage Food Act, you can sell approved non-hazardous foods. Class A requires self-certification; Class B (to stores) requires an OC Health permit.
Do I need a business license for cottage food in Orange?
Yes. A City of Orange business license is required in addition to the appropriate cottage food registration or permit from OC Environmental Health.
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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